Parks and Recreation System Planning: A New Approach for Creating Sustainable, Resilient Communities

This book provides a collaborative framework for parks and recreation system planning that will lead to resilient and sustainable communities. The framework prioritizes the creation of public infrastructure to meet social, environmental, and economic needs, by planning for community benefits such as preventing youth crime, facilitating healthy lifestyles, reducing traffic congestion, and attracting tourists. The framework also offers guidance on integration with elements of the broader public realm, such as transportation, storm water control, and utility systems. The book contains b&w photos, maps, charts, and diagrams. Author David Barth is a consultant in public projects. Annotation ©2020 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com)
Parks and recreation systems have evolved in remarkable ways over the past two decades. No longer just playgrounds and ballfields, parks and open spaces have become recognized as essential green infrastructure with the potential to contribute to community resiliency and sustainability. To capitalize on this potential, the parks and recreation system planning process must evolve as well. In Parks and Recreation System Planning, David Barth provides a new, step-by-step approach to creating parks systems that generate greater economic, social, and environmental benefits. Barth first advocates that parks and recreation systems should no longer be regarded as isolated facilities, but as elements of an integrated public realm. Each space should be designed to generate multiple community benefits. Next, he presents a new approach for parks and recreation planning that is integrated into community-wide issues. Chapters outline each step&;evaluating existing systems, implementing a carefully crafted plan, and more&;necessary for creating a successful, adaptable system. Throughout the book, he describes initiatives that are creating more resilient, sustainable, and engaging parks and recreation facilities, drawing from his experience consulting in more than 100 communities across the U.S. Parks and Recreation System Planning meets the critical need to provide an up-to-date, comprehensive approach for planning parks and recreation systems across the country. This is essential reading for every parks and recreation professional, design professional, and public official who wants their community to thrive.