Connecticut’s parks are delivering a 3-to-1 economic return, according to a study by the Trust for Public Land. The study found that for every dollar invested in parks and recreation, there is a $3 return in economic benefits.

Local Parks, Big Impact

In Connecticut’s four largest cities – Bridgeport, Stamford, New Haven, and Hartford – more than 70 percent of residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park. This strong result on park access shows that the cities have a solid foundation for excellent park systems that can serve community needs.

Parks are not only essential for recreation and relaxation but also provide numerous benefits, including reducing healthcare costs, strengthening local economies, and improving air quality. They also serve as a hub for community activities, fostering social connections and a sense of belonging among residents.

Investing in Parks

Despite the numerous benefits of parks, they often compete with other priorities for funding and attention. However, city leaders are starting to recognize the importance of investing in parks. Among the cities that reported, 71% said they are investing in parks specifically to reduce costs tied to healthcare or stormwater management.

The Trust for Public Land’s ParkScore index ranks park systems across the 100 largest U.S. cities, measuring access, acreage, investment, amenities, and equity. In Connecticut, the four largest cities rank in the bottom half of U.S. cities for park investment, reflecting a large gap between what communities need and what current budgets can provide.

To build on the progress made so far, it is essential to expand access to parks, prioritize investment in underserved neighborhoods, and support funding measures that ensure parks are maintained and improved over time.

Original reporting: The Connecticut Mirror — read the source article.