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Times Leader

HARRISBURG — Governor Tom Wolf this morning signed Senate Bill 699 into law, completing the transfer of Moon Lake Park from Luzerne County to the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR).

The Plymouth Township Park was purchased by Luzerne County in 1968, the same year federal and state funds had became available through Project 70. The bill releases the park from the restrictions of the state’s Project 70 Land Acquisition and Borrowing Act.

State Sen. John Yudichak (D-Luzerne/Carbon) praised the action by the governor that finishes a process started last December when Luzerne County and DCNR began discussions of a transfer.

“Today is the beginning of a brighter future for Moon Lake and a major step forward to needed improvements to the park to increase its value for area families,” said Yudichak. “Under DCNR’s management, Moon Lake Park will be the recreational jewel for the citizens of northeastern Pennsylvania that it once was.”

A news release announcing the bill being signed indicated that a strong bi-partisan consensus was built for SB 699 with Sen. Lisa Baker and Reps. Gerald Mullery and Karen Boback.

“This is a place to be treasured, protected, maintained, and improved,” Baker said. “This new operating arrangement enables those things to happen. As such, it is a wonderful demonstration of the politics of the possible.”

“Once the crown jewel of Luzerne County, Moon Lake Park has fallen into great disrepair,” Mullery said. “This is the first, albeit important, step in restoring the park to its original purpose as a premier destination for recreation and conservation. Thankfully, with the help of the Commonwealth, future generations will be able to enjoy all the park has to offer.”

“I appreciate the efforts of all those involved in making sure this park is repaired and maintained,” Boback said. “I know that many people in our region have memories of what this park once was. This bill would make sure that it is preserved for future generations to enjoy.”