The Trust for Public Land recently released its annual ParkScore, and Fresno ranked 94 out of 100 with a score of 30.9, down from last year’s ranking of 90.
The ParkScore is a study that ranks the largest cities in the nation based on total land use dedicated to parks, how much the city spends on parks per capita, amenities available within the parks and how many people live with walking distance to a park.
In response to the declining status of parks in the city, Fresno for Parks was created.
Fresno for Parks is a coalition of Fresno residents and community leaders who advocate for safer and cleaner parks for all Fresnans. They are committed to finding a solution to improve the current status of parks, trails and facilities, while creating parks in neighborhoods that lack access to them.
The group is currently working on an initiative that aims to let voters choose a 3/8-cent sales tax in the City of Fresno on the November ballot, with funding primarily dedicated to clean and safe parks. The measure would raise approximately $37.5 million annually for 30 years, costing an average of only $39 per household.
To get the measure on the November ballot, Fresno for Parks has been collecting signatures from Fresno voters.
Ronnie Lopez, 19, says he’s collecting signatures because parks had a big impact in his life.
“Parks are important to me because it kept me active and it kept me from the streets,” Lopez said. “I want to keep parks in our community up-to-date and clean for future generations.”
The last day to sign the petition is Friday, June 15 and can be signed at the following locations:
Central Valley Community Foundation
Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
5260 N. Palm Ave., #122
San Joaquin River Parkway
Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Saturday – Sunday, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
11605 Old Friant Road
Hands On Central California
Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
732 N. Van Ness Ave.
Fresno Arts Council
Monday – Wednesday + Friday, 10 p.m. – 2 p.m.
1245 Van Ness Ave.
For more information of Fresno for Parks, please visit FresnoForParks.com
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