Miami’s parks have suffered years of neglect and underfunding, and programming is often designed to raise revenue rather than serve communities. In response to these challenges, a network of Miami public space leaders is focusing on advocacy to promote high-quality, equitable public spaces. The team’s strategies include engaging residents in advocating for parks and public spaces, developing shared policy priorities and influencing local governments to not only invest in parks and recreation, but to do so in a way that reflects the needs of diverse communities.
Great parks, public spaces, natural areas, streets, greenways and blueways create the framework for a more sustainable community, increased property values and improved public health. With Miami as the second-fastest growing large city in the country, and Miami-Dade’s overall population growing at a marginally slower rate, there is opportunity to invest in a park system that improves both quality of life and attractiveness to business.
Integral to achieving this mission is growing the voices of park and public space advocates in the community. Miami public space leaders are convening as a network to develop shared policy priorities and implementation strategies to ensure the city and region are equitably and sustainably improving public space.