The Impact of Parks in Our Communities
Parks are more than just green spaces—they are essential to the health and well-being of our communities. They provide opportunities for recreation, foster social connections, and promote environmental stewardship. As cities continue to expand, the need for accessible and diverse outdoor spaces becomes even more crucial, ensuring that everyone can enjoy nature, stay active, and build a stronger community together.
85% agreed that their local parks positively impacted the quality of their community.
Parks Impact People
Nearly 91% of respondents surveyed agreed that visiting parks positively impacted their mental health.
77% agreed that visiting a park improved their social health
87% reported a positive impact on their physical health
72% of people aged 30-49 go to parks with their children
Individuals aged 50-69 were most likely to go to parks alone or with pets
The great outdoors doesn’t just impact you—it fuels our economy too! Indiana outdoor recreation economy added $15.7 billion to Indiana's GPD in 2023
Approximately 105,000 Hoosiers work in parks. This helps the economy by generating wages, supporting local businesses, and boosting tourism through recreation spending. Parks also drive infrastructure investments, create construction and maintenance jobs, and provide environmental and health benefits that lower healthcare costs and improve productivity.
Parks help fuel the economy
Green spaces, both small and large-scale urban forests were positively associated with cooling effects and improving air quality
Parks can combat climate change through cooling, absorbing, protecting, and connecting.