Parks and Trails

Parks and trails are important for promoting physical activity, healthy weight, and mental health. They also increase property values and neighborhood desirability, and can decrease crime in an area.

Click on the photo to see our full parks and trails infographic.

References

  1. Potwarka LR, Kaczynski AT, Flack AL. Places to play: Association of park space and facilities with healthy weight status among children. J Community Health. 2008;33(5):344-350. doi:10.1007/s10900-008-9104-x.
  2. Sturm R, Cohen D. Proximity to urban parks and mental health. J Ment Heal Policy Econ. 2014;17(1):19-24. doi:10.1126/scisignal.2001449.Engineering.
  3. Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. Trails and Economic Development.; 2007. [link]
  4. Bolitzer B, Netusil NR. The impact of open spaces on property values in Portland, Oregon. J Environ Manage. 2000;59:185-193. doi:10.1006/jema.2000.0351.
  5. American Planning Association. City Parks Forum Briefing Papers: How Cities Use Parks to Create Safer Neighborhoods.; 2003. [link]
  6. Kuo FE, Sullivan WC. Environment and crime in the inner city: Does vegetation reduce crime? Environ Behav. 2001;33(3):343-367. doi:10.1177/0013916501333002.

Part of the Wisconsin Obesity Prevention Initiative