Feds won’t raise Sandy Hook entry, camping fees in 2017

    Image: By NHRHS2010 - Own work

    Image: By NHRHS2010 - Own work

    The National Park Service has withdrawn a proposal to increase entry and camping fees at Sandy Hook, a New Jersey congressman announced. 

    At a public hearing held by the service, residents expressed their opposition to the fee increase, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-6th Dist.) said in a release. 

    “The proposed increase would have been an additional financial burden to the individuals and families who enjoy visiting Sandy Hook, and could potentially damage the local economy, which relies in part on tourism,” Pallone said.

    The daily vehicle rate was slated to increase from $15 to $20. The fee for seniors or those with access passes would remain the same.

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    It would have been the first parking fee increase at Sandy Hook since 2012 and the fifth since the establishment of fees in 1983. 

    Earlier this year, a National Park Service spokesperson said the revenue from the fee increase would fund ongoing park maintenance, renovations, and resource protection. 

    “We should be looking at ways to encourage more visitors to the parks, in turn helping the surrounding economies. I am confident that NPS’ decision will help keep Sandy Hook affordable for working families,” Pallone said. 

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