Today, we were named the #3 park system in the nation by the Trust for Public Land. This achievement marks the 6th consecutive year that Saint Paul has ranked in the top 3 on the “ParkScore” index, a recognition we can all take pride in. We’d like to commend Minneapolis for reclaiming their spot as the nation’s #1 park system — we send our congratulations and a socially distant high-five across the river. 

The index measures investment, accessibility and parkland amenities in the 100 largest cities in the U.S. At a time when access to nature and local recreation has never been more critical, we are proud to say that 99% of all Saint Paul residents live within a 10-minute walk to a park. We can attribute our high accessibility and amenity scores to strategic investments in new park space and facilities in identified areas of need – like the new Midway Peace Park set to open later this year along the Green Line and Frogtown Community Center which we celebrated last fall. We are grateful for the investments made in Saint Paul, Minneapolis, and our regional parks that have contributed to the accessible and quality amenities that are so highly valued by residents and visitors of the Twin Cities.

Urban parks play a vital role in maintaining the mental and physical health of our residents and protecting the habitat of our native plants and animals. In recent months, we have received an overwhelming number of messages from you regarding the impact and importance of our park facilities in your daily lives. We are humbled by your support, concern, patience, and appreciation for our park system and our staff during this time.

We have set the bar high for what a successful park system looks like, and you can anticipate a continued commitment to equity, sustainability, and innovation as we navigate the challenges and changes ahead of us. We must continue to strive to build a city that works for all of us. A park system that is inclusive of everyone.

You can trust that we remain committed to providing the leadership expected of Minnesota’s capital city as the world moves forward together.

-Mike Hahm, Director
Saint Paul Parks and Recreation

2020 ParkScore® ranking #3 Park System in America - Named #1 in 2015 and #2 in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 by the Trust for Public Land.

Last Edited: May 20, 2020