Announcements of possible state park pact canceled

After reports that state politicians had reached a deal Wednesday to open all state parks in time for Memorial Day weekend, officials canceled scheduled announcements of the possible pact and said it was unclear when - or if - a solution would be reached.

But they expressed optimism a deal would be finalized in time for the unofficial start of summer on Saturday. "We're close but we're not there yet," said Sisa Moyo, a spokeswoman for State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver (D-Manhattan).

Austin Shafran, a spokesman for Senate Democratic leader John Sampson of Brooklyn, also said officials had reached a "tentative agreement" but details were still being worked out.

Officials said negotiations were continuing Wednesday. At one point a news conference was scheduled to announce a deal but was then canceled.

On Tuesday, the state Senate voted 59-0 to force Gov. David A. Paterson to reopen 55 state parks closed in the state's budget crisis. The legislation, which would keep parks open until Albany lawmakers pass a state budget - now 58 days overdue - has to be passed by the Assembly and signed by Paterson to become law. The governor has signaled his opposition.

Paterson spokesman Morgan Hook has said the Senate bill is unconstitutional and the governor would veto it.