Governor signs Wolk bill to boost Central Valley parks

Legislation increases state parks, recreation opportunities in the Central Valley

SACRAMENTO–Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today signed legislation by Assemblywoman Lois Wolk (D-Davis) to bring additional state parks and recreation opportunities to California’s underserved Central Valley.

Wolk’s Assembly Bill 1426 requires the State Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) to develop and implement a comprehensive 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.  This legislation works 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.

AB 1426 requires the state to implement Central Valley Vision.

“This legislation works to ensure that residents of the Central Valley are given greater access to resources in their own communities, and to ensure that those resources are preserved and protected for the enjoyment of future generations,” said Wolk. “I thank the Governor for signing this important legislation into law.”