Redesigning a neighborhood park to increase physical activity: a community-based participatory approach.

BACKGROUND

Community collaboration and active engagement of neighborhood residents in park redesign are promising strategies for creating public spaces that support physical activity.

OBJECTIVE

This research brief describes the process of community engagement and discusses outcomes of a participatory park redesign project.

METHODS

A community design charrette was held in collaboration with community organizations. Environmental audits of park features and amenities were completed before and after implementation of park redesign. A guided discussion with stakeholders following the park redesign was conducted to discuss challenges, successes, and next steps.

RESULTS

Although level of activity among youth observed in the post implementation observations did not differ, there were a greater variety of activities observed among both children and adolescents. Furthermore, the goals of the project related to capacity building and meeting residents' needs were accomplished.

CONCLUSIONS

Active participation of residents in a neighborhood park redesign requires time, commitment, and communication from a variety of stakeholders. However, the creation of a park that supports a variety of activity types, and builds community capacity, supports the need for involving stakeholders in redesigning neighborhood parks.