By Betsy Logan

July is Park and Recreation Month, and this year’s theme, “Build Together, Play Together,” is the perfect reminder that every great place to play starts with a plan. From the longest trail systems to the smallest pocket parks, planners work to design sustainable and accessible recreation opportunities that bring a wide range of benefits to communities.

Parks, trails, and green spaces do more than provide places for recreation.  They create jobs, manage stormwater, offer socially inclusive gathering spaces, protect cultural heritage, mitigate climate change, enhance property values, attract new businesses, promote health and fitness, and stabilize neighborhoods.

According to the Outdoor Places, Shared Spaces Pennsylvania’s 2025-2029 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (draft), Pennsylvanians enjoy access to:

• 6,429 local parks totaling 203,000 acres,
• 124 State Parks totaling more than 300,000 acres (3 new since 2020),
• 5 million acres of state land open for public recreation, and
• 14,113+ miles of trails on public and private lands

Additionally, 65% of Pennsylvania’s live within a 10-minute walk to outdoor recreation in Pennsylvania, a number the state and municipalities are working hard to increase.

Comprehensive plans, official maps, and land use ordinances help ensure that parkland is protected and developed where it’s needed most. In particular, thoughtful planning plays a vital role in expanding access in underserved neighborhoods.

The draft state plan identifies five priority areas, one of which focuses specifically on improving equity in access. Through targeted funding for rehabilitation, development, and property acquisition, Pennsylvania is investing in inclusive outdoor spaces for all.

With the right tools and support from state programs, we can build together—so everyone can play together.