Bill > A664

Introduced Session

This bill would appropriate $1 million from the General Fund to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to be used for capital improvement projects at Allaire State Park located in Monmouth County. The amount appropriated by the bill would be used by the DEP to (1) prepare a capital improvement plan for Allaire State Park and (2) conduct capital improvement projects at Allaire State Park in accordance with that plan. The DEP would be required to prepare the capital improvement plan within 90 days after the bill is enacted into law. The bill requires the DEP to transmit the plan to the Governor and the Legislature, and to post it on the DEP's Internet website. In addition, the bill requires the DEP, within one year after the bill is enacted into law, to submit a written report to the Governor and the Legislature detailing the DEP's progress in completing capital improvements at Allaire State Park using the funds appropriated by the bill. Allaire State Park is an educational, environmental, and historical jewel. Allaire State Park may be best known for its historic 19th-century iron making town, Allaire Village, and the Pine Creek Railroad, a narrow-gauge train ride. The Manasquan River, which winds through the park, provides excellent opportunities for freshwater fishing and the river's floodplain provides habitat for over 200 species of wildflowers, trees, and plants as well as habitat for birds and other wildlife. Hiking and multi-use trails are throughout the park. The Historic Village at Allaire is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, licensed by the State of New Jersey to operate and manage the historic property located within Allaire State Park. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the park received approximately 450,000 visitors annually, who enjoyed the recreational and cultural facilities provided by the park and historic village. In addition, over 9,000 school students annually visit and participate in the cultural and historical programs offered at Allaire Village. Allaire Village provides cultural and historic programming at the park, including over 60 events annually. This bill will assist the park and the village to continue to protect and enhance its natural resources and historic nature for future generations.

AI Summary

Committee Categories

Sean Kean (R)*, 

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Environment, Natural Resources, and Solid Waste Committee (on 01/09/2024)

Official Document