Governor’s Veto Striking Funding for Gardner Visitors Center Overridden by Senate

BOSTON – The Senate today overrode Governor Deval L. Patrick’s Veto striking $100,000 for renovations to re-open the vacant Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Heritage State Park Building located at 26 Lake Street in Gardner announced Senator Jennifer L. Flanagan (D-Leominster) and Senator Stephen M. Brewer (D-Barre).

“This is very important funding for downtown Gardner.  Simply put, no downtown should have to house an empty state owned building.  I was happy to work with Senator Brewer to override this veto,” stated Senator Flanagan.  “I look forward to working with both DCR and the City of Gardner to getting the renovations done, so we can re-open this building.”

“I am proud to say that this year’s budget included major initiatives in local aid.  We listened closely to citizens and representatives in our districts and did our best to meet their needs,” said Stephen M. Brewer (D-Barre), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means.  “The funding for the visitors center is critical for necessary upgrades that will allow the building to be more regularly utilized by citizens and draw visitors to the downtown area.”

The Heritage State Park building has been closed since June of 2002. 

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Posted: Mon, Jul 30, 2012
Updated Tue, Jul 31, 2012