The Day

R.I. governor calls for investing in state parks

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Lincoln, R.I. (AP) — Democratic Gov. Gina Raimondo says Rhode Island needs to invest more in its state parks and beaches.

Raimondo and her husband, Andy Moffit, joined Department of Environmen­tal Management Director Janet Coit and environmen­tal advocates at Lincoln Woods State Park Monday.

Raimondo’s budget proposal seeks to add $1.5 million to DEM’s parks division for eight new employees.

To raise that money, DEM has said it’s considerin­g increasing beach parking and campground fees. The amount would be determined through a regulatory process.

Raimondo’s office says longterm investment­s are needed due to budget and staffing cuts at DEM in recent years, combined with increasing visitor use, longer seasons, aging facilities and expanded responsibi­lities.

DEM is holding public meetings about the parks system. The first is at 4 p.m., Wednesday, at Westerly Town Hall.

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