The people who work for city parks and recreation departments were surveyed about sustainability successes and challenges.
National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) surveyed its members about their efforts as "stewards of the environment." Rachel Dovey notes in Next City that, "despite their natural role as builders of environmentally friendly infrastructure and stewards of ecology, few agencies have a formally documented sustainability plan."
The study found that the three "sustainability activities" agencies most commonly cited as part of their work were: Providing opportunities for healthy activities in nature, protecting and managing wildlife and wildlife habitats, and responsibly managing natural land (in descending order). Their top three challenges were: lack of funding, lack of dedicated staff, and limited expertise in developing sustainability measures.
Read the full story: Survey of 400 Parks Depts. Shows Power of Green Space
Parks: Essential Community Infrastructure — and a Smart Investment
Even during times of budget constraint, continued investment in parks is critical, as they provide proven benefits to public health, safety, climate resilience, and community well-being — particularly for under-resourced communities.
Monterey Park’s Blueprint for Equitable Parks
Monterey Park’s first-ever Parks System Master Plan offers a community-driven roadmap for creating more equitable, accessible, and vibrant public spaces.
Delivering on the Promise of Parks
In LA County, even amid budget challenges, new parks are opening, targeted investments are being made in underserved communities, and long-term plans are guiding progress — demonstrating a sustained commitment to parks as essential infrastructure.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Amtrak, CN end decades-long dispute with eight-year agreement
The new operating agreement establishes an updated framework for the companies to work together, including processes to resolve disputes.
Judges permit Denver to divert 77,000 acre feet from the Colorado River for reservoir expansion
Overuse and climate change have caused the Colorado River’s water levels to plummet.
NYC DOT wants faster, more permanent street upgrades
The city is examining ways to build more concrete infrastructure without getting entangled in 'decades-long' projects.
'Something we’ve never seen before:' rising utility rates could strain city finances nationwide
Data centers, climate change and other factors have caused utility rates in the United States to increase by 38% since 2020.
Trump to overrule local leaders, lease millions of acres of America’s Pacific Island territories’ seafloors to mining companies
International law says that the Indigenous people of America’s territories have a right to prior and informed consent regarding projects that impact their countries.
FREE Course: Walkable City 1: Why Walkability?
After describing his path towards focusing on walkability as the essence of good planning, Jeff Speck marches through his five principal reasons for making more walkable places.
Reinventing Malls: Planning Alchemy—Turning Gray Fields Into Gold
The course focuses on the opportunities and imperatives that shape reinvention of mall sites.
Harvard University Graduate School of Design
KFH Group Inc.
Greater Baltimore Committee
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
The Pocatello Development Authority
The Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Pocatello