Economic Impact Study for the Parks

The Parks Foundation has contracted professional consultants to conduct an economic impact study of the nine Allegheny County Parks. In 2016 and 2022, the Parks Foundation commissioned Park User Surveys that provided important data on the number of visits the Allegheny County Parks receive each year. Park visitation increased 12.5% during that time period from 20.7 million in 2016 to 23.2 million in 2022. To follow up that survey, we are now determining, for the first time, the economic impact of these visits on both the regional and local economies to help validate the importance of the parks beyond their social and recreational value. Please stay tuned for the results of this study, which will be available later this year.

Park 'til Dark

We are looking for feedback on our annual Park 'til Dark event. We are considering replacing Park 'til Dark with an event that is more closely aligned with our mission, that allows us to more deeply engage with park users and one that is valuable to a diverse range of park visitors. Please respond to the question outlined below so we can enhance your event experience with us!

If you have more detailed feedback to share, please email Jess to let us know!



Save-the-Dates

Pour at the Park

Pour at the Park will take place on Saturday, May 17, in South Park and Saturday, October 11, in North Park. Stay tuned for more details!

Twilight Picnic for the Parks

Twilight Picnic for the Parks,

presented by UPMC Health Plan,

will take place on Saturday, August 16,

at Hartwood Acres Park.

Share your favorite park story, memory or what you love about the parks! We would love to feature your love of the county parks in our newsletter or on our social media.

"My sister, Anne Gasperich (pictured above, red jacket) loves North Park and has spent countless hours there running, walking, hiking, biking and playing pickleball. In May 2023, Anne experienced the park in a new way when she had a medical emergency while running and many people quickly jumped in to assist. Anne expressed being overwhelmed by the kindness shown and that she now has another reason to love the park.

So, for Anne’s 65th birthday on November 17, 2023, her family and friends worked with the Allegheny County Parks Foundation on the installation of a commemorative bench at North Park in her honor. We surprised Anne with this on her birthday weekend.

On November 17th of 2024, and Anne’s 66th birthday, we gathered for “Bagels at the Bench” to celebrate Anne and the wonderful new bench!"

January Park Ranger

Featured Event

This January, join the Park Rangers for a Guided Hike to learn about the wonderful world of owls. This Guided Hike is available on January 11 in Round Hill Park, January 18 in Boyce Park and Hartwood Acres Park and January 19 in Harrison Hills Park. Learn more about these events or discover all of Allegheny County events HERE!

info@acparksfoundation.org | acparksfoundation.org | 724.327.7627