Minneapolis Repeats as Nation’s Best Park System, According to The Trust for Public Land’s 2018 ParkScore® Index
Wednesday, May 23, 2018 at 9:50AM
Minneapolis has the best park system in the United States, according to The Trust for Public Land’s 7th annual ParkScore® index, which was released today by the nonprofit organization.
Minneapolis narrowly edged Saint Paul to earn top honors. A different regional rivalry claimed third and fourth place, as Washington, DC, barely outscored Arlington, Virginia, to hold on to third. In another big move, Chicago cracked the top 10 for the first time in ParkScore history.
“We’re honored by the top ranking for the sixth year in a row! My motto is ‘playing for life’ and parks are a vital resource for youth, adults and families throughout the city. We are committed to serving the diverse needs of our residents, and we’re proud of the initiatives we’ve taken to continually assess and improve our park facilities and the services we provide the community,” said Mary Merrill, Superintendent of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board.
“Minneapolis will always be a great city in a park. From quality of life, to safe recreational space, to tourism—our parks are critical to who we are as a city. I’m thrilled that our park system continues to earn accolades. We have world class parks and the world is taking notice,” added Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey.
“Saint Paul is excited to be recognized again as a world-class park city,” said Mayor Melvin Carter. “We are proud of what we have achieved and are grateful for the partnership we have built with the Trust for Public Land. I believe that parks play an important role in both social and environmental resilience and am glad that the Twin Cities have set a high standard for what a successful park system looks like.”
