Pallone Urges National Park Service to Abandon Proposal to Increase Fees at Sandy Hook

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) attended a public comment session to express his concern regarding the National Parks Service’s (NPS) proposed fee increases at Sandy Hook. At Congressman Pallone’s request, the NPS agreed to hold this public hearing at Sandy Hook where New Jerseyans could voice their opinions regarding the proposed changes. The proposed fee increases would raise camping fees at the park in 2015 and also raise parking fees starting in 2017.

“Sandy Hook is one of our area’s true natural treasures, and New Jersey families deserve the opportunity to be able to visit the beach at an affordable price,” said Congressman Pallone at today’s meeting. “My concern is that these proposed fee increases will make it less likely that many in our community will be able to enjoy all Sandy Hook has to offer this summer. During these times when families are still struggling with daily costs, the National Park Service should not be making access to recreational areas more expensive.”

Pallone also highlighted the fact that this is the second proposed fee increase at the park in two years. NPS increased daily fees at Sandy Hook in 2012.

The new proposed parking fees would increase the daily rates from $15 to $20 per car and from $75 to $100 for season passes, effective in 2017. Also, the proposed changes would increase camping fees at Sandy Hook from $20 to $30 starting during the summer of 2015.