N.J. touts contracts for some park jobs-Activists worry about fee hikes, public access

[The Straight Story]

N.J. touts contracts for some park jobs
Activists worry about fee hikes, public access

JERSEY CITY — Gov. Chris Christie wants contractors to take over concessions and event services at Liberty State Park and other state parks, saying the cash generated by the move can help keep the more than 50 state parks, forests and recreation areas open.

An environmental group immediately expressed fears that leasing sections of Liberty State Park to vendors could lead to higher fees and restrict public access.

Christie ruled out hikes in admission or entry fees for state residents, though he said new rates for items such as group camping, boat storage, and bus passes are likely.

“At a time when most other states are closing down state parks to save money or significantly increase entry fees, our administration is committed to keep all the state parks accessible for everyone to enjoy them,” Christie said Wednesday during a news conference at Liberty State Park. “Entrance fees will not change. If people can’t afford to come there, it doesn’t matter whether you keep the parks open or not.”

http://www.app.com/article/20111102/NJNEWS/311020124/Christie-proposes-privatizing-some-state-park-jobs-activists-worry