Parks, trails, natural areas, and other public spaces are important community assets. They provide places for physical activity, recreation, social connection, relaxation, and time outdoors, all of which can contribute to physical and mental well-being. Access to greenspace is also an issue of health equity. The benefits of parks and recreation depend not only on whether green spaces exist, but also on whether they are safe, welcoming, well maintained, accessible, and easy for residents to reach.
Greenspace, Recreation, & Quality of Life
Genesee County is home to one of Michigan’s largest county park systems, encompassing more than 11,000 acres of parks and natural areas. Residents have access to a variety of outdoor spaces for walking, recreation, nature, community events, and other activities. Within Flint, ongoing investments in parks, playgrounds, trails, riverfront areas, and other public spaces demonstrate the role that the built and natural environment can play in community health and quality of life. Projects such as improvements to neighborhood parks and plans for the Flint State Park along the Flint River also create opportunities to think about environmental restoration, recreation, neighborhood connectivity, and equitable access to outdoor spaces.
- Explore Parks and Greenspace Data: Use the Parks and Greenspace Dashboard to explore information about parks and outdoor spaces in the Flint and Genesee County area. Explore the Parks and Greenspace Dashboard here.
- Investing in Flint’s Parks: Community investment can help improve the quality, accessibility, and use of public spaces. Learn more about recent investment in Flint parks and playgrounds and what those improvements may mean for neighborhoods throughout the city here.
Continue Exploring Health Equity in Flint
Health is influenced by many interconnected factors. Explore other areas within the interactive Flint community page to learn more about housing, transportation, food access, environmental conditions, community resources, and other conditions that shape health. Visit the Community page here.
