H.R. 4985: Community Parks Revitalization Act

The Community Parks Revitalization Act is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing urban parks and recreational facilities through a federal program managed by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. The primary goals of this program are to promote health, stimulate economic development, and support conservation efforts within urban areas. To achieve these objectives, the bill offers grants for various initiatives, which include:

• Rehabilitation of existing parks and recreational areas.
• Innovative projects that introduce new amenities or designs.
• Community engagement efforts that involve local populations in the revitalization process.

Project Eligibility

For a project to qualify for financial assistance under the Community Parks Revitalization Act, it must meet specific criteria, which include:

• A minimum project cost of $20 million.
• Dependence on dedicated revenue sources for repayment.
• Public sponsorship is required if the project is not led by government bodies.
• Creditworthiness of the project must be established.

Selection Criteria

The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will develop selection criteria to evaluate the projects. This will include considering:

• Diversity in the types of projects proposed.
• Environmental impacts and sustainability in the proposed locations.

Objectives of the Bill

The overarching objectives of the Community Parks Revitalization Act revolve around:

• Improving the quality and accessibility of parks and recreational facilities in urban settings.
• Fostering better health outcomes for communities through increased access to recreational areas.
• Encouraging economic development through enhanced public spaces that can attract visitors and encourage local business growth.
• Promoting conservation and environmental stewardship in urban areas, ensuring that parks can support local ecosystems and wildlife.

Funding and Implementation

The funding for projects under this act will be allocated through grants, which will be aimed at support for both existing facilities and new innovations in urban park development. The initiative emphasizes active involvement from community members to ensure that revitalization efforts align with local needs and priorities.

Impact on Communities

The bill seeks to involve community members actively in the decision-making process regarding the parks that serve them, thus giving them a voice in how public spaces are developed and maintained.

Relevant Companies

• None found