A Policy Roadmap for Building Equitable Park Systems

In late 2020, voters in Portland, Oregon, overwhelmingly approved the Parks Local Option Levy (Parks Levy). Through a small increase in property taxes, the Parks Levy raises $48 million per year for five years, starting in 2021. The Parks Levy provides crucial operating funding for the Portland Parks & Recreation parks system and programs that provide recreation services and help conserve parks, nature, and clean water. While many cities use property tax to fund parks, Portland’s Parks Levy is unique because the city specifically prioritizes that funds are used to address disparities in park access. Where Portland is not unique, however, is in its need to increase green space.

Read more at Next City.