A Study of the Park and Recreation Problem of the United States

Cover

Contents

Foreword

Supplemental Foreword

Introduction

Recreational Habits and Needs

Aspects of Recreational Planning

Present Public Outdoor Recreational Facilities

Administration

Financing

Legislation

A Park and Recreational Land Plan

A Study of the Park and Recreation Problem of the United States

PRESENT SITUATION

Thus, well over a billion dollars has been spent through the emergency agencies of the Federal Government during the past few years, most of which has been used for development of areas and construction of facilities. The expenditure of such a vast sum for facility development has undoubtedly accelerated the provision of physical features for the recreational program by at least 25 years, and in all probability more. The allocation of such a percentage of public works and work relief funds for this purpose undoubtedly reflects a demand on the part of local communities, since the great preponderance of projects originated with local and State governments. It also reflects the recognition of the Federal Government that such developments could be of immense public benefit, since it has been consistently required that work relief projects should be "socially useful."

The possession of such physical facilities, however, entails public responsibility for their proper maintenance and operation and social responsibility and opportunity to make them render the greatest possible service. The States and local communities were expected to assure such financial support when the projects were approved or Civilian Conservation Corps camps assigned. Through long experience in many fields, public agencies are aware of the necessity for trained technical and professional personnel in enterprises involving construction, but in a great many instances they are not conscious of the necessity for and the qualifications of professional personnel in the field of operation and use of recreational facilities. Only by the employment of such personnel can satisfactory results be obtained and widespread human benefits be realized. If such benefits are not realized it will become increasingly difficult to justify and to obtain adequate public funds for the recreational program.

BASIC SUPPORT—TAX FUNDS

Undoubtedly there are many supplemental sources which will contribute toward the financing of a public recreational program. But in order that the agency may have a dependable, adequate budget with the probability for increment as the responsibilities and needs of the agency increase, governing authorities must face the situation squarely and make adequate provision out of regular tax revenues for at least the primary needs of properly qualified personnel, equipment, materials, transportation, office supplies and other essential items. There are never-ending opportunities to use additional funds to advantage, and no opportunity should be overlooked to take full advantage of any additional sources of revenue provided they do not restrict the service of the agency or negate its social purposes.

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Last Modified: Mon, Aug 9 2004 10:00:00 pm PDT
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