By Senator Jim Tedisco
In the 44th Senate District, encompassing Saratoga County, Schenectady, and Niskayuna, there are numerous top-tier tourist destinations, state and national parks, and exceptional recreational facilities. These attractions not only draw a substantial number of visitors each year but also play a pivotal role as key economic drivers and job generators for our region.
A recent report from the Saratoga County IDA revealed that tourism contributes a significant \(647 million annually to the Capital Region’s economy, resulting in \)266.9 million in employee earnings.
Similarly, in Schenectady County, tourism has been reported to have a substantial economic impact of $387 million, as per a study by Empire State Development.
Visitors to the 44th Senate District and surrounding areas collectively spend approximately $1.194 billion annually on various amenities such as lodging, dining, entertainment, transportation, and retail shopping.
The tourism sector supports over 17,000 jobs in Saratoga and Schenectady Counties, underscoring its importance in the local economy.
With a background in athletics as a former high school and college athlete, varsity basketball coach, and athletic director, I recognize the vital role that recreational facilities play in our communities.
I am privileged to have been appointed by Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt as the Ranking Member of the NYS Senate Committee on Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks, and Recreation. In addition to this leadership role, I will continue to serve as the Ranking Member of the Senate Education Committee and the Senate Racing, Gaming, and Wagering Committee, while also being a member of the Banks, Libraries, and NYC Education Committees.
As the Ranking Member on the Senate’s Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks, and Recreation Committee, I am committed to advocating for the best interests of my constituents and the diverse array of attractions in the 44th Senate District that make our region unique and appealing to visitors.
This responsibility is particularly significant for the Capital Region, given that the 44th Senate District is home to renowned sites such as Saratoga Spa State Park, Moreau Lake State Park, Proctors Theatre in Schenectady, Saratoga National Historical Park, Saratoga Performing Arts Center, and many others that draw tourists from far and wide.
In light of hosting the 156th running of the Belmont Stakes at the historic Saratoga Race Course this year, Saratoga County is gearing up to welcome a surge of visitors, including those commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Battles of Saratoga—a pivotal moment in American history.
Having a track record of working on legislation related to state parks and tourism, I successfully championed bipartisan legislation in 2021 to allow state forest and park rangers, as well as DEC Park Police, to carry life-saving EpiPens for emergencies involving severe allergic reactions.
Furthermore, I collaborated with the Saratoga Springs Save the Ballet committee during my time in the Assembly to retain the New York City Ballet at SPAC for their summer residency.
In my new role on the Senate Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks, and Recreation Committee, I will continue to advocate for bipartisan legislation (S.7688) aimed at installing security cameras at the entrances and exits of all state parks and recreational facilities. This initiative was prompted by a tragic incident at Moreau Lake State Park.
I am also sponsoring legislation to provide a Lifetime Liberty Pass for honorably discharged veterans for free admission to all state parks and recreational sites (S.675), as well as free access and parking at state parks for active-duty military and veterans (S.2252).
Additionally, I am advocating for free usage of state parks and campsites for volunteer firefighters and members of volunteer ambulance services (S.655).
While challenges persist across New York State, the 44th Senate District stands out as a growing and appealing destination for visitors. It is imperative that we remain steadfast in preserving the unique essence of our region and the qualities that have made it a sought-after tourism hub.
I eagerly anticipate collaborating with all stakeholders in the 44th Senate District to uphold and enhance its allure.
Senator Jim Tedisco (R,C-Ballston Lake) proudly represents Saratoga County, Niskayuna, and the City of Schenectady.