October 2025

The Art Of Placemaking

A preview of the October issue

Editor's Notes 6 min read

Creative Collaborations

As a U.S. Cultural Policy Fellow at Stanford University, the Minnesota-based artist models how organizations like parks departments can think about artists-in-residence and artists-in-government.

Parks 5 min read

Trusted Partners

Across the country, partnerships with local land trusts facilitate projects with long-term environmental, economic, and social impacts. Expertise in land acquisition, fund development, environmental stewardship, and community engagement can catalyze solutions.

Parks 5 min read

Designed With Purpose

The crisp fall air ushers in a much-anticipated time of year—college football season. To many, football means tailgating, relaxing weekends, and cheering for their favorite team with friends and family.

Rec Facilities 4 min read

Lighting The Way

In June 2024, Washington, D.C., completed one of the most ambitious public lighting upgrades in the country.

Parks 5 min read

Ready For Primetime

During this past summer, the world beat a path to America’s doorstep for the FIFA Club World Cup.

Rec Facilities 5 min read

The Lifecycle Of A Playground

In cities and suburbs alike, playgrounds are often overlooked as just another part of the landscape. But these spaces are more than a patch of metal and mulch—they are vital spaces where children grow stronger, kinder, and braver, creating lasting memories and meaningful friendships.

Rec Facilities 4 min read

Beyond Accessibility

The design intent of inclusive playgrounds is to create an environment where no one feels left out.

Parks 6 min read

On The Right Path

As climate change intensifies, communities around the globe face unprecedented environmental challenges, from rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns to the loss of biodiversity. In response, innovative approaches to enhance climate resilience are essential.

Parks 5 min read

Revenue Development For Public Parks

Public parks are often caught between providing accessible amenities and programs for the community and finding ways to generate revenue for upkeep and maintenance.

Parks 7 min read

Showing Appreciation

When I remember the times I volunteered to coach one of my kids’ sports teams, what mattered most was when the organization showed appreciation for busy parents like me who stepped up to help. It’s amazing how simple it is to make a volunteer feel like he or she is doing something that matters.

Columns 3 min read

Rolling With The Circumstances

In my junior year of college, I took a night job as a waiter in a four-star restaurant. The tips were phenomenal, and the experience was packed with lessons and growth opportunities.

Columns 6 min read