In 2022, the Fairfax County Park Authority began a comprehensive review of its fee-based revenue model with the objective of identifying a new path forward toward increasing the equity of access to county park and recreation programming. After an 18-month effort with consultant HR&A, an initial report of the findings and proposed recommendations has been prepared and is being shared with the Park Authority Board, Board of Supervisors and the public for initial comments and feedback.
“The Park Authority is firmly committed towards enhancing equity in all aspects of our park system, including access to our first-rate park programs and services,” said Fairfax County Park Authority Executive Director Jai Cole. “With a laser-focus on equity, we are working with the BOS, our partner agencies, and our community to blaze a new trail to ensure we can live up to our mission to enrich the quality of life for all members of the community by ensuring that our phenomenal programming is accessible and affordable to all residents.”
The initial presentation on the 2024 Equity Study was delivered at the Jan. 24 Park Authority Board. A recording of the presentation, the Equity Study Report and presentation, as well as a history of the development of the county’s park and recreation system and the Park Authority Revenue and Operating Fund are available at 2024 Park Authority Equity Study.
The Park Authority is seeking public comment and reaction to the information contained in the 2024 Equity Study and presentation. The feedback will play a valuable role in developing next steps toward greater equity in the Fairfax County park system. Initial comments may be submitted online or via U.S. mail now through Friday, March 1. Instructions for participating are available at A Trail to Equity in Fairfax County Parks.
The Park Authority will use the results of the initial comment period to plan a robust community outreach program likely to run through the summer. The program will include public meetings and a survey to obtain additional understanding regarding how residents perceive park programs and serve to identify potential barriers to participation that may exist. It is anticipated that comments and additional data collected will be delivered to both the Park Authority Board and the Board of Supervisors by fall 2024.
For details, please contact the Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.