Parks Make The Nation’s Capital the Nation’s Greenest City

For the sixth year in a row, Washington, D.C., has garnered one of the most interesting (and underrated) distinctions in the nation. According to the latest report from the Trust for Public Land (TPL), D.C. is home to the best parks system in the country.

God Is in the Details

The Trust for Public Land uses specific markers in their ParkScore ranking.

• Acreage: This number calculates median park size and the percentage of the city area dedicated specifically for parks.
• Access: This number indicates what portion of residents are within a 10-mile walk of the park.
• Investment: This is the average of private and public spending (including hours from paid volunteers) over a three-year period.
• Amenities: These are the features of the parks that appeal to the various interests of the people who use them.
• Park Space Equity: This indicates the parks and park space between neighborhoods.

D.C. scored high — well over 50 points — in each category. Namely, when it comes to the city’s investment in maintaining their parks. TPL gave D.C. a perfect score in this category. Access was close behind, with 99 points. Overall, D.C. scored 85 points.

Perspective Is Key

To put these numbers into some perspective, D.C.’s Access score is a solid 23 points above the national average. More impressively is the sheer number of parks available to the public in the nation’s capital. A grand total of 693 parks covers 21% of the area. This is 6% higher than the national average.

President and CEO of Destination DC Elliott L. Ferguson, II emphasizes the city’s dedication to green space. “With nearly 700 parks across just 70 square miles, you can stroll from America’s most-visited national park, the National Mall, to America’s oldest urban park, Rock Creek Park, and be wowed by all the stunning gardens and landscapes in between.”

Where’s the Good?

You can find so much peace and comfort when convening with nature. Washington, D.C.’s parks are vibrant spots of positivity. The city provides a wellspring of energy that gives communities a much-needed break from what is often an unhealthy relationship with hustle culture. The good is in the green of the trees, the natural and paved paths, the healthy flora and fauna.

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