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This summer, a day at the beach at Sherwood Island State Park will cost significantly more. Last October, the state legislature raised fees at all Connecticut state parks, as a budget-balancing measure. Parking fees at Sherwood Island doubled. For the 2010 season, daily parking at the beach will cost $20 for residents and $30 for non-residents. Season passes now ring up at $100.
The Friends of Sherwood Island, a volunteer group, help oversee the park. They worry that the higher fees might keep some people away. But volunteer Marilyn Bakker points out that the $100 season pass can be used at any Connecticut state park.
Last year, Sherwood Island logged about 500,000 visitors, according to Park Director Jim Beschle. Its expansive beaches, shimmering Long Island Sound views and plentiful picnic facilities are top draws. But grey days have their fans as well. It's amazing how many come here, even when the weather is rainy, Beschle says. Besides residents, summer attendance includes people driving by who see the sign on route 95. This year, however, some of those day trippers might see the fees and hit the road again.
Season opener for Sherwood Island State Park's nature center is April 17. Until Memorial Day, it will be open on weekends only, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The center's summer schedule, Wednesday through Sunday, kicks in after the holiday. Park Director Beschele says the Nature Center's first-come, first-served kids' summer activities programs haven't been made final yet, but he expects they'll include nature and bird walks, shell searches,art projects and more. To learn about Sherwood Island State Park, visit The Friends of Sherwood Island website.
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