Assemblyman Andy Goodell (R,C,I-Chautauqua) today thanked local volunteers and state park enthusiasts for the second annual “I Love My Park Day” at Midway State Park. The event was hosted by Parks and Trails New York as a way to give back to New York state parks while promoting the affordability and close proximity of many of the state parks during the upcoming summer travel season.

“For 115 years, kids of all ages have come to Midway Park for a day of fun in the sun,” said Goodell. “Today, the park continues to offer a family-friendly atmosphere complete with a nostalgic ride on the vintage carousel, mini golf, bumper boats and more. We had an outstanding group of volunteers who worked tirelessly to help get the park in tip-top shape. This year’s ‘I Love My Park Day’ was another tremendous success, and I want to thank the volunteers and park staff for all their efforts.”

Volunteers also received thanks and praise from Rose Harvey, the Commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

“Volunteers are such an important and cherished resource of our great park system and we are so very thankful that nearly 4,000 came out statewide and took part in the second annual I Love My Park Day,” said Commissioner Rose Harvey, Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. “The volunteers that donated their time and energy to all of our parks have made a lasting impact that will lead to the future enjoyment for our family, friends and neighbors. Community assistance is such a strong component in ensuring New York State Parks has one successful season after another, and we are so very excited to welcome another sixty plus million people this year.”

During the day, volunteers completed a number of tasks, painting of the fencing surrounding the rides and the parking areas, painting the golf holes in the miniature golf course, raking of leaves around the rides, collection of branches and other debris throughout the picnic grove area and clean-up of the train station.

“This weekend’s event was a great way to kick-off the summer season and highlight one of the many remarkable activities offered in Chautauqua County,” concluded Goodell.

Midway State Park opens for the season on Memorial Day weekend, with rides and an arcade running from May 25 until September 2. The park is open on weekends only from May 28 to June 18 and then Wednesday through Sunday from June 23 to September 2. For additional information and hours of operation, please contact the park directly at 716-386-3165.