The City of Irvine has been ranked seventh in the nation by the Trust for Public Land annual ParkScore Index, which ranks the nation’s 100 largest cities based on factors including park access, acreage, investment, and amenities. Irvine is the top-ranked city in California, and this is the third consecutive year the City’s parks have ranked in the top 10 nationally.
Irvine earned perfect scores in park spending per resident and basketball hoops per 10,000 residents; the City also earned high marks in community centers and playgrounds. The ParkScore Index noted that 82 percent of Irvine parks are within a 10-minute walk of each residence, well above the national median of 72 percent. The ParkScore ranking includes parks, facilities, and amenities managed by the City, either through ownership or joint-use agreements.
“We are pleased to have one of the top 10 park systems in America for the third consecutive year,” stated Mayor Christina L. Shea. “Our parks are essential to our mental and physical health – that has never been more evident than during the coronavirus pandemic. Not only do we have thousands of acres of parkland and open space available in Irvine, they are maintained using an organics first approach to land management. So whether our residents are kicking a soccer ball on a field or walking a dog, they can be assured of a safe environment.”
The full ParkScore Index is available at tpl.org/parkscore(link is external), including score details and demographic information for each city. Learn more about Irvine parks at cityofirvine.org/parks(link is external).
###
Since its incorporation in 1971, Irvine has become a nationally recognized city, with a population of 276,176 that spans 66 square miles and is recognized as one of America’s safest and most successful master-planned urban communities. Top-rated educational institutions, an enterprising business atmosphere, sound environmental stewardship, and respect for diversity all contribute to Irvine’s enviable quality of life. This family-friendly city features more than 16,000 acres of parks, sports fields and dedicated open space and is the home of the Orange County Great Park. For more information, please visit cityofirvine.org.
