New report shows economic benefits of open space and trails in Pinal County

The Trust for Public Land’s latest economic analysis report concludes that Pinal County’s parks, trails, open space, and trust lands provide enjoyment, recreation, cost savings, and local revenues.

The report finds that Pinal County residents are willing to pay $100 million annually to recreate in public parks and trails. Non-residents who visit Pinal County because of parks and open space spend $36.5 million in the local economy, which generates $672,000 in sales tax. More than 31,000 Pinal County residents engage in physical activities in parks, generating measurable health benefits of $12.1 million per year. Proximity to parks and open space enhances the value of residential properties-an aggregate, one-time increase of $190 million. Increased tax revenues from these properties generate $2.7 million annually.

The report also calls attention to the important agriculture industry in Pinal County. Pinal’s livestock and poultry products are valued at more than $500 million, and crops are valued at more than $200 million annually.

This research was supported by a grant from The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation.