Parks and public open space promote physical activity, improve mental well-being and foster social connections in communities across the nation. Parks provide the public with low-cost or no-cost physical activities, like walking, hiking and biking. These activities help prevent increasingly common health conditions, such as obesity, anxiety, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Unfortunately, not every person lives within walkable distance of a park. The access gap not only prevents community members for enjoying all that parks have to offer, it also may lead to health disparities.
This resource helps park and recreation professionals and advocates demonstrate the economic benefits resulting in increased health outcomes that come from eliminating inequitable park access. Using a combination of publicly available data and a straight-forward methodology, a user will be able to estimate annual health benefits in dollar should a city or town ensures every community member lives within walkable distance of a park or other public open space. These data are part of the powerful case for greater and more sustainable park and recreation funding.
To leverage this information, use this communication guide to help craft your story and messages for a variety of audiences. Share the impact of the health and economic impact of parks and garner support to advance your efforts in creating healthy and resilient communities.
This resource is based on the Health Impacts of More Equitable Parks pathway developed by the Urban Institute. Read details here
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