McDonnell’s proposed budget calls for the temporary closure of:
- Caledon Natural Area in King George County
- Mason Neck State Park in Fairfax County
- False Cape State Park in Virginia Beach
- Twin Lakes State Park in Prince Edward County
- Staunton River Battlefield Park in Halifax and Charlotte counties.
Caledon encompasses 2,579 acres along the Potomac, with dense forest and prime habitat for eagles and other wildlife.
Twin Lakes is Virginia’s most historically significant park for African-Americans.
False Cape is one of the most pristine five miles on the eastern seaboard.
If the budget is approved as proposed, the parks would close to the public, but a skeleton crew would remain on hand as caretakers until the budget situation improves.
Last year, according to the National Association of State Park Directors, Virginia ranked 46th in parks spending per capita and 47th in percentage of state general funds devoted to parks.
Read (Fredericksburg Free Lance-Star)
How will this affect Biscuit Run, the new state park in Albemarle County that was purchased by the state last month?