One of the country's most passionate supporters of parks writes a review of a book that explores the characteristics and qualities of great parks.

Adrian Benepe, former New York park commissioner and Olmsted Medal winner, reviews the second edition of Great City Parks by Alan Tate with Marcella Eaton.
"Park geeks and urban nemophilists, not to mention the 'designers, administrators, planners and politicians with current and future responsibilities for city parks' that the author cites as the primary target audience, have reason to celebrate and pore over this lovingly detailed volume, richly illustrated with photographs (most of them by the authors) and simple plans of the parks, and heavily annotated with quotes, citations, and footnotes."
Benepe's glowing review is aided by his expertise—for instance, he has visited 18 of the 30 parks included in the book, and gives the author an A+ for accuracy. Read through the end of the review for Benepe's response to the book's theories about what constitutes a great park.
FULL STORY: What Makes a “Great” City Park? The Beholder Sees

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions
Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50
A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

Delivering for America Plan Will Downgrade Mail Service in at Least 49.5 Percent of Zip Codes
Republican and Democrat lawmakers criticize the plan for its disproportionate negative impact on rural communities.

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Balancing Bombs and Butterflies: How the National Guard Protects a Rare Species
The National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap uses GIS technology and land management strategies to balance military training with conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of the rare eastern regal fritillary butterfly.
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