WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Nanette Diaz Barragán (D-Calif.), Michael Turner (R-Ohio) and Joe Neguse (D-Colo.) introduced a bipartisan bill to provide an historic one-time stimulus of $500 million for urban parks.
Local parks are at risk because of tightening state and local budgets during the pandemic and economic downturn. The Parks, Jobs, and Equity Act would provide a funding boost for urban parks through a formula grant to states to fund local park projects, which will ensure investments are quickly executed to help communities recover from dual public health and economic crises.
“From places to sit in the shade, to spaces to exercise in the fresh air, to local job creators, urban parks bring so much value to our communities, especially during this public health emergency,” Congresswoman Nanette Diaz Barragán said. “In Los Angeles County, low-income communities and communities of color often lack equal access to local parks. The threat of future park agency budget cuts place these critical community spaces on the chopping block. We need this one-time stimulus funding to help protect urban parks survive this crisis.”
A coalition of more than 200 national regional, and local parks organizations support the legislation, which will create jobs, improve local economies and address park inequity. Of the $500 million, 50 percent is designated for in low-income communities. In addition, two percent of funds will be allocated by the Interior Department to Indian Tribes.
If enacted, it’s estimated the Parks, Jobs, and Equity Act would:
- Create more than 8,000 new jobs.
- Add $1.37 billion to local economies.
- Fund more than 1,000 new or upgraded local parks.
Bill text for the Parks, Jobs, and Equity Act can be found here.