the importance of Delaware parks

Parks are an important part of a town’s culture. They provide residents and tourists a free and available place to enjoy various activities that support a healthy lifestyle including walking, organized sports, and rollerblading to name a few. They also provide a place to socialize, relax, and enjoy nature. 

Research has shown that active lifestyles including vigorous or moderate physical activity reduce the rate of obesity and help drive down health care costs. A recent report from the Trust for Public Land, How Much Value Does the City of Wilmington Receive from Its Park and Recreation System?, revealed that health care cost savings due to park use by Wilmington residents was approximately $4.3 million in 2008. 

Overall savings for residents which result from these health care cost savings, in addition to savings related to direct use value (amount of money residents save by not having to pay market rates to participate in parks activities they enjoy) and community cohesion, totaled more than $47 million.

It’s important for all residents to get involved in maintaining and building parks and playgrounds to improve the health of Delaware’s children. Take the time to participate in a service project at a local park, join a park friends group or contact your local councilperson or state legislator and let them know how important parks are to your family.

Visit the Delaware Center for Horticulture website for more information on the report.