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Visitor Perceptions Of Benefits Of Local Park, Deborah L. Kerstetter, Andrew J. Mowen, Nate E. Trauntvein, Toni Liechty, Nuno Rubiero

Kinesiology and Health Science Faculty Publications

Recent research regarding the perceived benets of local parks has been limited, posing a problem for recreation and park directors who must promote the value of and gain support for aging park facilities. To collect evidence concerning the value of local parks and the impact of park upgrades, we conducted a study with one local park to (a) document behavioral changes that have occurred as a result of renovation, and (b) determine the perceived benets of having a community park. Two-thirds of respondents reported visiting the park more frequently since renovations were completed. When asked why they visit the park …