Resilient Neighborhoods

Until recently, my neighborhood was without sidewalks or any type of community gathering place. I live in an historically underfunded industrial neighborhood; an area where many families have lived for generations. The paper mill which thrived over 60 years ago is now barely functioning causing years of decline in the area.

Myself and a few others would get our daily walk in on the streets. We would avoid logging trucks which use the neighborhood as a thoroughfare. Angry drivers would speed past when stuck by the local train. Over the last few months, the county has put in amazing sidewalks. They also added a park adjacent to my home on an old abandoned driving range.

There are countless reasons to invest in green spaces in our urban areas-from combating climate change to boosting neighborhood economies- expanding park access creates a connection of support. Parks are vital spaces for youth sports, offering kids opportunities to stay active, develop teamwork skills, and build confidence. By prioritizing greenspaces and park development, we can create healthier, greener communities while giving young athletes resources they need to thrive.

The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) believes park and recreation agencies,through the provision of equal access to parks and recreation,should cultivate community ties through programs and services for all which produces public benefits by connecting people more deeply to the fabric of the community. Parks and greenspaces positively impact the people in communities allowing for outdoor activities which improve health, improve social connections cultivating a sense of pride, and helps to reduce crime in underrepresented neighborhoods.

In the few months the park has been open, I have seen a daily increase in activity. Youths in the area are playing soccer, riding bikes, and playing catch. Families are coming together with young children at the playground area. People walk dogs together. Picnic tables are full of neighbors talking and gathering for social interactions. Car break-ins and graffiti incidents have reduced.

Teresa Perkins is a sustainability journalist, who is creating research-based content pertaining to resilient communities and social equity at local, national, and global level for publication and distribution.

Teresa Perkins