Fremont Peak State Park is one of the 48 state parks targeted
for closure in Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s proposed budget.
Fremont Peak State Park is one of the 48 state parks targeted for closure in Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s proposed budget.
The local state park is often cited as one of the best views in the county, and local stargazers frequently make use of the park’s small observatory.
Schwarzenegger released his budget Thursday, calling for 10 percent cuts across the board in response to a $14.5 billion budget shortfall. Before taking effect, the budget must be approved by the State Senate and Assembly.
“The governor has a tough job, and he’s going to make a lot of people unhappy,” said San Benito County Supervisor Anthony Botelho. “From my perspective, I’m not happy about Fremont Peak closing. … That was the first place where the American flag was raised in California, and we’re going to close that park?”
Under the governor’s proposal, the 48 parks, including Henry W. Coe State Park, would remain closed until more funding becomes available. The parks could also be handed over to local governments.
Asked if San Benito County might take over Fremont Peak, Botelho said, “I wouldn’t rule it out, but the reality of it is that county and city governments are struggling with the same issues to maintain a balanced budget.”
