Parks Are A Wise Investment In Tough Times

At a time when families across the country are facing fewer choices for fun, ambitious park projects like those in St. Louis, Detroit and Houston are "bringing urban centers back to life," according to JoAnn Greco.

1 minute read

August 29, 2010, 9:00 AM PDT

By George Haugh


"It's a role previously assigned to the '80s-era performing arts center and the '90s-era downtown sports venue. Thanks to parks' across-the-board appeal, wide diversity of uses and heavy programming, though, they may be the piece that ultimately completes the puzzle."

The Discovery Green in Houston is an fine example of how investment can transform a neighborhood. "Even before it was completed, a developer bought an adjacent lot with the idea of opening One Park Place." It was the first apartment tower to go up in the city for decades and is 65% occupied in less than a year.

Friday, July 30, 2010 in Washington Post

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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 Planner

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Mary G., Urban Planner

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