Wolk bill to boost Central Valley parks moves to Governor

Legislation increases state parks, recreation opportunities in the Central Valley

SACRAMENTO–The State Senate voted 29-10 today to approve legislation by Assemblywoman Lois Wolk (D-Davis) to bring additional state parks and recreation opportunities to California’s Central Valley.

Wolk’s Assembly Bill 1426 requires the State Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) to develop and implement a detailed plan to expand and improve park facilities and recreation programs in the Central Valley State Park System.
 
“The Central Valley is one of the fastest growing regions in California, and the state is having a hard time keeping up with the area’s mushrooming needs for parks and recreational opportunities,” said Wolk. “The Central Valley has significantly fewer parks and recreational facilities than any other area of the state.  My intent with AB 1426 is to resolve this inequity.”

State Parks concluded a comprehensive four-year study on possibilities for expanding service in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys last year, conducting research and holding town hall meetings. The study resulted in the Central Valley Vision, a 20-year road map setting a timetable for the implementation of State Parks’ plan. High priority was given to water-based recreation facilities such as rivers and reservoirs. Priority was also given, when possible, to significant natural resources.

“I look forward to the Governor signing this bill into law, ensuring that State Parks’ Central Valley Vision is brought to bear,” Wolk concluded.