State Parks Are Busy, And Dirtier, In Midst Of Budget Cuts

Connecticut's state parks remain as popular as ever despite cutbacks forced by the state budget crisis, but some visitors say they are seeing the impact in less staff, dirtier trails and beaches, and fewer lifeguard shifts.

State park advocates say a key reason why Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's administration hasn't made even deeper cuts to state parks during the summer is that they bring in more money than they cost to operate during the hot weather months.

"There are less gates open, less lifeguards on duty," said Jim Mastriano, a Clinton resident who was at Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison on a recent day with his 15-year-old daughter, Delaney, and 12-year-old son, Jake. "After big weekends, the beaches are a little bit dirtier than they used to be."

Mark Hart of Torrington, who was also enjoying Hammonasset last week with his wife Nancy, agreed. "I've noticed that, when I walk down to use the facilities … there is debris {on the beach} that probably shouldn't be there," Hart said.

Read more: http://www.courant.com/news/connecticut/hc-state-parks-summer-status-20170719-story.html