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Parks and Playground Use Up in Down Economy

A recent study suggest the economic downturn has spurred a sharp increase in public park and playground use among families with kids, especially those with children younger than 6 years old. Here are the results of a poll conducted on behalf of TPL by Harris Interactive from July 28-30, 2009. The sample included 2,095 U.S. adults aged 18 years and older.

The poll asked this question: During this period of economic difficulty, have you and your family changed how much you make use of public parks and playgrounds?

Those who responded fell into one of four groups and were given a choice of three responses: I/We: make greater use of public parks and playground; use public parks and playgrounds the same amount; or make less use of public parks and playgrounds.

All groups showed increased use, but two groups in particular showed a sharp increase.

Park users with children in the household:
greater use 30%
same use     60%
less use       10%

Park users with children under age 6 years in the household:
greater use      38%
same use        51%
less use          10%

You can view the complete results and methodology of this poll/study by downloading this pdf.

Posted 8/2009

Posted 8/2009