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.

The numerous benefits of skate parks outweigh their high costs for the growing number of U.S. cities pursuing them.
The city is using $40K from its general fund to waive admission fees at 17 community pools to offer kids under 17 free swimming opportunities all summer.
Mounties support Grand Rapids’ police in patrolling public events and keeping them safe. They also increase citizen engagement with law enforcement.
Firefighters at Longview Fire Department are blending fitness, faster response times and community outreach by playing daily pickleball at Clary Courts
Researchers say a 30 percent canopy increase could cut extreme-heat hours by 64 percent and stormwater runoff by 58 percent
A sanitation truck, snow removal equipment or public works vehicle are moveable barriers that can harden mass gatherings from vehicle terror attacks and other threats.
The American flag is considered a living symbol under federal law. We must treat it as such.
Jackson County Parks and Roads Director John Vial took the helm of the county’s new emergency operations center when the county’s health department was overwhelmed due to COVID-19
Research has shown that parks keep people happy in times of global crisis, economic shutdown and public anger
First responders said they have had to slowly navigate large apparatus around the potholes to respond to many emergencies at the park’s pond and cliff-hiking area
All 50 states and Washington, D.C., have declared a state of emergency; compare state actions to reduce the spread of the virus
A roundup of how local parks and recreation departments are helping residents stay both healthy and safe as the pandemic threatens communities
The CDC now recommends organizers cancel or postpone gatherings of 50 or more people for the next eight weeks
The makeover calls for unique playground equipment with a forest theme, a picnic and lawn area, an off-leash dog park, adult exercise equipment, a vendor kiosk and public restrooms with an attendant.
An integrated strategy includes cleaning up graffiti, prosecuting vandals, working with the community and decoding threats