Sen. John Yudichak (D-Luzerne) Wednesday praised House passage of Senate Bill 699 which will allow for the transfer of Moon Lake Park from Luzerne County to the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

"Utilizing DCNR's resources and management expertise, Moon Lake Park will benefit from significant state improvements that will return it to its rightful place as a public asset and a recreational jewel for the citizens of northeastern Pennsylvania," Sen. Yudichak said.

House passage of the bill was part of the process that started in January when DCNR signed an agreement with Luzerne County for the transfer and announced $1 million in improvements at Moon Lake. The state investment includes a new boat ramp, new trails and trail heads.

"I appreciate the attention House Speaker Mike Turzai, House Majority Leader Dave Reed, House State Government Committee Chairman Daryl Metcalfe (R-Butler) gave to this important legislation for Luzerne County. Clearly, a strong bi-partisan consensus was built around SB 699 with the help of my Senate colleague Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne) and Rep. Gerald Mullery (D-Luzerne) in the House," Sen. Yudichak said.

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

Former DCNR Secretary Ellen Ferretti and current Secretary Cindy Dunn were instrumental in putting together the Commonwealth's plan to assume ownership of Moon Lake Park.

The House approved the bill 189 to 0. The legislation now goes to the governor for his signature.

A House Fiscal Note and summary are available.

NewsClip: Moon Lake Park Transfer Bill OK’d

6/22/2015