Parks & Recreation
Parks & recreation are essential focus areas for local and state government agencies, responsible for creating and maintaining public spaces that enhance residents’ quality of life. These services provide opportunities for outdoor activities, community engagement, and environmental conservation. Effective management of parks and recreational facilities contributes to the overall well-being of communities. This directory offers articles on parks and recreation, along with related topics like Community Development, which explores initiatives that improve the livability and vitality of neighborhoods and cities.
Many states have legalized marijuana, but the laws do not authorize weed smoking in public, leaving cities to figure out enforcement
Fundraising and a community development grant created Harvest Hope Park, a 7-acre inclusive space for the at-risk area near USF Tampa.
Louisville, Ky., New Orleans, Durham, N.C., and others wrestle with what to do with Confederate statues, from relocating them to readjusting their context
Can municipalities take advantage of the decentralizing economy? Gov1 Editor and Publisher Barry Greenfield takes a look at this trend and how it can positively impact your city and residents...
The US Fish and Wildlife Service recently announced an additional $2.5M in grants on top of $14M in recent awards for boating related activities. Learn how your city or town can take advantage of the programs
As zoos around the US seek new funding mechanisms, Evansville and Asheville are looking for private funding to shore up budgets
The EPA recently awarded seven cities for smart growth projects. See inside for the common aspects playing a role in the success
Recent research shows that fiscal challenges to parks departments can be offset by collaborations with private organizations. With help from the Reason Foundation, we study various efforts around the country...
With a backlog of $46 million in improvements and just a $3.4 million annual budget, the Indianapolis parks and recreation department needs a new strategy. Inside we detail their efforts to tap private organizations to help manage the parks system...
Expanding upon a 2011 shared services agreement for fire protection, North Las Vegas and Las Vegas proper are now adding park maintenance, business licensing and animal control.
Nashville, TN, recently adopted an ordinance that allows its park board to accept corporate sponsorship from private entities for facilities and events. Details of this and Montgomery County, MD’s sponsorship policy inside
As part of a study on mismanagement of California’s state park system, the Little Hoover Commission provided a detailed report on how significant operational reform is required for all parks in the US. Inside we provide key aspects of the new strategies
In Carlsbad, CA, the city hopes to save up to $4.7 million by outsourcing park maintenance and operations. Inside, details on Carlsbad’s efforts, the needs assessment RFP, and information on the Reason Foundation’s recent Parks 2.0 report on public-private partnerships
The Bohemia Ecological Preserve near Santa Rosa, California opened last May, and is being run by a non-profit group of volunteer citizens. Inside we tell you how the city and non-profit are working together to provide park services in a down economy.
The City of Dallas posted an RFP seeking a private contractor to operate its 4-field softball complex. The goal includes outsourcing all operations and earning a revenue share from tournaments and events. Key details on privatization, sponsorship and naming rights within.
With the Trump administration’s rollback of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) as it applies to the Clean Water Act, wetland and waterway restoration assistance is a priority in many communities. Three grants are opening early in 2019.
Bike infrastructure grants from People for Bikes can help offset the costs of state and Federal grant-funded bike lanes and more.
The EPA’s Clean Vessel Act grant program helps communities cut septic waste from boaters by funding construction and renovation of pump out facilities. Learn who received funding and how to apply
The Forest Service is now accepting applications for the Community Forest Program, which encourages the creation of community forests and fosters rural economies.
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