Activating National Parks in Cities Act

The Activating National Parks in Cities Act proposes to expand the official mission of the National Park Service (NPS) to include the promotion of active use for park units located in urban areas. Currently, the NPS mission focuses heavily on preservation and protecting natural resources for future generations. This bill aims to shift that focus for neighborhood parks in cities, allowing them to better serve the daily recreational needs of local residents rather than functioning solely as protected wilderness sites.

If enacted, the bill would define active use to include the development of playgrounds, pedestrian and bicycle-friendly infrastructure, sports facilities, and community event spaces. It would also allow for more programming, such as public holiday celebrations and concessions, within these urban park units. These changes would specifically apply to areas designated as urban by the U.S. Census Bureau, ensuring that traditional wilderness areas remain focused on preservation while city-based parks become more dynamic community hubs.

For everyday citizens, this legislation could lead to improved maintenance and new amenities in local national parks. Residents in metropolitan areas might see increased access to recreational equipment, better-maintained trails for commuting or exercise, and more frequent community gatherings. The bill seeks to address concerns that urban national parks are currently inconsistently managed and do not always meet the practical needs of the people living near them.