State Auditor Crit Luallen was one of those who pushed for the big capital expenditures on the parks system, believing it would lead to more visits. It hasn't worked. Luallen blames the lack of money for promotion. The entire advertising budget for the state parks system is just $480,000 this year.

But Commerce Secretary Marcheta Sparrow admits that the park system may be "overextended." Kentucky has 17 state resort parks. That's more than any other state. It must also pay for the upkeep of more than 50 shrines, memorials and historic sites. Sparrow says there are no active discussions about closing any state parks but the state is considering limiting the hours and services at some parks to save money. She only says they're working on a plan to better target the limited ad dollars.

Here's my story from tonight.