State Budget Cuts Close Swimming Pool, Campgrounds At Heckscher State Park In Islip

ISLIP, NY (WCBS 880) - You can call this a sad state of the times.

WCBS 880's Sophia Hall With The Bad News

The phone has reportedly been ringing off the hook from people looking to use the swimming pool at Heckscher State Park in the town of Islip.

But, because of state budget cuts, the pool is closed.

Also, you can forget about camping. That, too, has been stopped for the summer.

"As we watch the state tighten its belt, it becomes more and more evident that we're going to have to find other places to enjoy over the summertime," says Councilperson Trish Bergin. "Hopefully, when the economy starts to rebound, we'll be able to see these things being brought back on the state level. But in the meantime, there are still some beautiful town facilities that people can enjoy."

Many people from Long Island and the five boroughs use the pool at Heckscher State Park.