WASHINGTON, DC - In an effort to improve public access and upgrade facilities at Salty Brine Beach, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) today announced that the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management will receive $500,000 in federal funding to replace the Salty Brine Beach pavilion in Narragansett. The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management will receive the money for the overhaul from a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant. The funding is administered by the National Parks Service.

"Salty Brine Beach is a wonderful family beach that gets a lot of use from both tourists and Rhode Islanders. The existing facility is over twenty five years old and in need of replacement," said Reed, a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on the Interior, which oversees federal spending of National Park Service programs. "I am pleased the federal government is investing in upgrading Salty Brine's facilities so that future generations of beach goers can continue to enjoy picnicking in the area, fishing, and watching the boats come in."

The Land and Water Conservation Fund is a partnership program that provides matching funds to states and local communities for acquisition, development, and conservation of parks and open space. Rhode Island will match the federal grant with an additional $500,000 in funding for a total of $1 million.

The new facility will also meet enhanced accessibility requirements.

"The Ocean State's beaches are vital to Rhode Island's heritage, culture, and economy," concluded Reed. "I will continue to work hard in the U.S. Senate to ensure that Rhode Island receives its fair share of federal funding to protect and preserve our beaches and natural resources."

Formerly known as Galilee State Beach, Salty Brine State Beach was dedicated in 1990 to Salty Brine, Rhode Island's most widely recognized radio personality.