13 July 2023
St. Paul Parks and Rec and the St. Paul Parks Conservancy recently announced they have joined a national nonprofit effort dedicated to ending play space inequity across the country.
The non-profit KABOOM!’s initiative is designed to “ensure that every child has an amazing place to play across the country,” according to the press release.
St. Paul Parks and Rec and the conservancy plan to invest $7.5 million through a fundraising campaign to improve access to places for children to play.
“Strong nonprofit partnerships are vital to the success and sustainability of our parks and recreation system,” said St. Paul Parks and Recreation Director Andy Rodriguez, in a statement. “We are excited to work with KABOOM! and the Saint Paul Parks Conservancy to make our playspaces safer, more equitable, and accessible for all.”
St. Paul has been recognized as having the second best city park system in the U.S., according to the Trust for Public Land’s annual ParkScore rankings. However, despite the high ranking, St. Paul does have equity access gaps in its lower income neighborhoods.
“Our parks and play areas offer safe, active, and engaging spaces for our entire community,” said Mayor Melvin Carter. “This partnership will expand opportunities for children and families in our city and ensure everyone is able to play, learn, grow, and thrive.”
Visit kaboom.org to learn more about the initiative.
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