Did you know?

People exercise more when they have access to parks and trails. Physical activity helps people maintain good health, and parks provide a place for all community members to be active. Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce the risk of diseases such as heart disease, hypertension, colon cancer, and diabetes. Exercise, active lifestyles, and spending time in nature also provide psychological benefits, improve mental health, and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Recreation and Parks Association)

This is among the many reasons that great parks lead to great communities. It is also among the trends and research the Fairfax County Park Authority is considering as we create our first ever Parks and Recreation System Master Plan. 

This comprehensive park system master planning effort builds on the findings from the Parks Count! Needs Assessment that was completed in spring 2016. With a 10-year time horizon, the Great Parks, Great Communities Parks and Recreation System Master Plan will guide the agency to meet growing and changing community needs.

Looking to the future, the Fairfax County Park Authority wants to do more to improve access and opportunities for healthy and active lifestyles. Check out the Great Parks, Great Communities Parks and Recreation System Master Plan website and draft master plan and supporting appendix to learn more and tell us what you think!

The draft master plan is available now through September 22, 2017 for public review and comment. Submit your comments via Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov , on the project website, or at the public input meeting on Tuesday, September 12, 2017 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Green Spring Gardens in the Multi-Purpose Room. Green Spring Gardens is located at 4603 Green Spring Road in Alexandria, Virginia.  

We welcome your thoughts and questions on the draft plan. For more information about this initiative contact Samantha Hudson, senior planner at samantha.hudson@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-324-8726.