Chapter 19: Parks and Recreation

Cities have authority by state statute and local charter to acquire, develop, maintain, and regulate their lands and structures for public recreation. Acquisition may be by gift, negotiated purchase, or eminent domain condemnation. Facilities may include parks, playgrounds, athletic and exposition grounds and buildings, stadiums, swimming pools, zoos, golf courses, bicycle paths, and other similar lands and structures.

In general, city park facilities fill the public’s need for open space, room for outdoor activities, as well as programing to fulfil activities desired by the community.