Parks are a Public Health Issue

In Cities Like Fresno, CA, the Lack of Green Space Threatens Residents' Well-Being

Every year, the Trust for Public Land analyzes the 75 largest U.S. cities and gives them a score based on how well they are meeting the need for parks. This year, the city of Fresno, California, tied for last place.

Don’t get me wrong—Fresno has parks. I grew up in the Central Valley, and have fond memories of holiday picnics and family outings at Woodward and Roeding parks, the only public spaces large enough to fit more than 50 of my relatives. I spent much of my childhood in these urban …