Pallone Statement on Proposed Sandy Hook Fee Increase

Long Branch, N.J. – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. Monday issued the following statement opposing the proposed fee increase at Sandy Hook that would double the amount visitors would pay to access the park.

“This is certainly not the time to be placing additional financial burdens on New Jerseyans who are already cutting back in all different aspects of their lives.

“Gateway National Recreation Area has proposed to increase the fee for each vehicle entering the park from $10 to $20 and increasing the time from one day to two consecutive days that the payment allows a vehicle to access the park. In addition, the proposed changes would increase the season pass fee by double, from $50 to $100. The changes also double the amount for an over-sized vehicle of 20 feet or longer to $50 per day.

“I have been a long time advocate of the preservation and upkeep of the resources at Sandy Hook and will continue to be, but at a time when American families are struggling we cannot ask them to pay more for access to a public national park. Instead of traveling, families are staying close to home and Sandy Hook is a great option for New Jerseyans up and down the state. This fee increase will only discourage visitors from coming to Sandy Hook, hurting both individuals and families and the National Park Service.

“I requested the National Park Service and Gateway National Recreation Area hold this public hearing at Sandy Hook and to reconsider their proposal to increase fees. I believe the park service can find a way forward that doesn't place the burden on New Jersey families and which keeps access to one of our state’s most prized assets affordable to everyone.”