Parks & Open Spaces

Signature Events

Why Parks Matter

Parks and open spaces are essential for healthy communities. At ARPA, we support the development and protection of these spaces because they provide opportunities for recreation, improve well-being, and connect people with nature.

Our Commitment to Parks and Open Spaces

ARPA works with communities, government, and industry partners to ensure parks and open spaces remain accessible, sustainable, and valued. We support initiatives that enhance outdoor recreation, protect natural spaces, and promote the benefits of parks for everyone.

How Parks Support Our Sector

Parks and open spaces are at the heart of recreation and community engagement. They help to:

Create essential recreational opportunities – Urban parks provide places for sports, play, and exercise, improving physical health.
Support child and youth development – Green spaces encourage creativity, problem-solving, and social skills.
Strengthen communities – Parks serve as gathering spaces for cultural events, festivals, and social connections.
Improve urban livability – Green spaces help reduce pollution, regulate temperatures, and support biodiversity in urban environments.
Promote equity and inclusion – Parks ensure that people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities have access to outdoor recreation.

The Value of Municipal Parks and Nature-Based Recreation

As Alberta’s cities and towns expand, it’s more important than ever to prioritize municipal parks and access to nature. Green spaces in urban areas provide:

Physical and Mental Health Benefits – Activities like walking, jogging, and yoga in parks contribute to overall well-being and reduce stress. Outdoor play and activities like running, cycling, and team sports help children and youth build lifelong healthy habits.
Stronger Learning and Development – Nature-based play supports cognitive development, problem-solving skills, and creativity.
Safe Spaces for Socialization – Parks provide areas for youth to connect, build friendships, and engage in unstructured play.
Climate Resilience – Trees and vegetation improve air quality, reduce heat, and manage stormwater in cities.
Economic and Social Value – Well-designed parks increase property values, attract businesses, and foster social interaction.
A Connection to Nature – Even in urban settings, parks provide opportunities to experience nature, fostering environmental awareness and stewardship.

Parks, Open Spaces, and Reconciliation 🪶

Parks and open spaces hold deep cultural and historical significance for Indigenous Peoples in Alberta and across Canada. Many of these lands have been used for generations as places of gathering, sustenance, and spiritual connection. Today, parks can play a key role in reconciliation by:

Honoring Indigenous Land Stewardship – Recognizing that Indigenous Peoples have long cared for and protected these lands.
Supporting Cultural Awareness – Creating spaces that share Indigenous history, languages, and traditions through interpretive signage, programming, and art.
Ensuring Access to Traditional Lands – Working with Indigenous communities to preserve and restore culturally significant landscapes.
Encouraging Partnerships – Collaborating with Indigenous leaders, Elders, and organizations to co-manage parks and develop inclusive recreational opportunities.

At ARPA, we are committed to fostering meaningful reconciliation in parks and recreation spaces by advocating for Indigenous-led initiatives, supporting land-based learning, and promoting inclusivity in outdoor recreation.

Resources and Learning Opportunities

To support the future of parks and open spaces in Alberta’s growing cities and towns, we offer a variety of tools and learning opportunities: