The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy wants people to know trails, playgrounds and lawns are for everyone. The conservancy invites people to enjoy the outdoors.
The conservancy said Friday it will place “All Are Welcome” signs throughout Pittsburgh parks. It is part of a mission “to promote equity throughout the city’s shared outdoor spaces,” officials said.
Signs will first be erected in Schenley Plaza, Allegheny Commons Park and Frick Park, followed by McKinley Park and August Wilson Park.
“All parks users deserve to feel safe, welcome and respected in their parks,” said Catherine Qureshi, chief operating officer, Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy in a statement. “Park equity cannot be achieved unless everyone feels safe and welcome.”
Parks are for everyone. Parks are for all. Learn more about what parks and green spaces mean to Bishnu by viewing the video below!https://t.co/TetTFkwxqn
— Pittsburgh Parks (@pittsburghparks) October 27, 2020
During the pandemic, people have flocked to parks for exercise and leisure. A Google Community Mobility report said that parks use in Allegheny County from Sept. 6 to Oct. 18 rose 103%, officials said.
“Parks play an essential role in our lives, especially at this challenging time,” Qureshi said. “But Pittsburgh parks should provide safety and solace for everyone. The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy embraces the responsibility of creating safe and inclusive park spaces that reflect diversity, highlight the characteristics of neighborhoods and communities, and lift up all who visit.”
The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy was founded in December 1996 by a group of citizens concerned with the deteriorating conditions of Pittsburgh’s historic city parks. To date, the conservancy has raised more than $130 million and completed 22 major park improvement projects.
It hosts hundreds of events and programming annually.
