What is the Central Valley Park Strategy

The Central Valley Park Strategy is a collaborative effort to increase public support for park investments, activate park spaces and strengthen policies and practices that expand park access for everyone in the Central Valley. 

By working together with local governments, community organizations, healthcare partners and residents, the initiative aims to tackle longstanding health and environmental inequities by ensuring equitable access to parks across the region.

featured image

Why Parks Matter

Parks and green spaces are one of the most valuable investments a community can make. They can provide residents with:

  • Improved mental and physical health
  • Cleaner air and water
  • Extreme heat reductions
  • Spaces to bring one another together
featured image

Parks and Open Space in the Central Valley

The Central Valley features an abundance of natural resources. However, communities in the region face a pressing need for improved access to quality park and recreational spaces.

Two cities in the region, Fresno and Stockton, have a third of the amount of park space as similarly sized California cities. In smaller cities, as well as rural and unincorporated communities, access to quality outdoor spaces is further limited by lack of funding to build new parks or steward existing spaces. 

Despite the challenges, Central Valley cities are making strides toward more parks and better access. Fresno passed Measure P to increase the budget for park investments, and Bakersfield’s 2024 Parks Master Plan focuses on equal access.

featured image