Putting A Price On The Value Of Open Space

How important is open space to the economic prosperity of an area?

1 minute read

December 26, 2000, 6:00 AM PST

By Abhijeet Chavan @http://twitter.com/legalaidtech


"[A] study commissioned by the East Bay Regional Park District has concluded that the district's presence is a major factor in the economic prosperity of the area it serves.The report concludes that the park district's system of open space, parks, trails and recreational facilities is a key part of the "urban fabric" of the East Bay, crucial to future efforts to sustain the region as it continues to grow.The report also states that the park district is a fundamental component of the region's quality of life. Quality of life is, in turn, a critical factor in sustaining the region's economic prosperity."

Thanks to Abhijeet Chavan

Thursday, December 21, 2000 in Contra Costa Times-Walnut Creek

Young Professional

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban and Environmental Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban and Environmental Planner

Get top-rated, practical training for planners

"Planetizen federal action tracker" logo superimposed over black and white image of US Capitol dome.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker

A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

October 7, 2026 - Zachary Whalen

The mayor of Baltimore speaks into a microphone in front of a rally for more state transportation funding from Maryland.

‘Going backwards:’ Baltimore mayor, students rally against state's transit funding plan

Maryland's proposed six-year plan provides no funding for Baltimore’s BMORE bus program and reduces its road maintenance funding.

October 2, 2026 - Baltimore Sun

A rendering of the waterfront development, which shows a lit-up stage by the waterfront and people walking about.

Detroit to transform waterfront with $2.2 billion investment

Developers will convert about 18 acres of unused parking lot space into civic spaces.

October 2, 2026 - ABC 7

A rendering of the proposed green space, which has a white, triangular structure that provides shade, and small waterfalls.

LA to transform part of water treatment facility into new park

By rebuilding some of the Los Angeles-Glendale Water Reclamation Plant’s infrastructure, the city will free up 18,000 square feet to create a new green space for the public.

1 hour ago - LA Urbanize

A colorful Via transit bus next to a brick building.

San Antonio approves $1.1 billion transit agenda

The agency has also begun construction of its Via Rapid Green line, which will service passengers from the San Antonio International Airport.

2 hours ago - San Antonio Business Journal

A woman sits on a bus stop bench and looks at her phone.

Guerilla urbanists’ DIY benches joined by sanctioned seats in Chicago

The group behind the original homemade benches said they will continue installing them across bench-less bus stops in Chicago.

3 hours ago - Block Club Chicago