Redesigning a neighborhood park to increase physical activity: a community-based participatory approach.

BACKGROUND: Community collaboration and active engagement of neighborhood residents in park redesign are promising strategies for creating public spaces that support physical activity. OBJECTIVE: This research brief describes the process of community engagement and discusses outcomes of a participatory park redesign project. METHODS: A community design charrette was held in collaboration with community organizations. Environmental audits of park features and amenities were completed before and after implementation of park redesign. A guided discussion with stakeholders following the park redesign was conducted to discuss challenges, successes, and next steps. RESULTS: Although level of activity among youth observed in the post implementation observations did not differ, there were a greater variety of activities observed among both children and adolescents. Furthermore, the goals of the project related to capacity building and meeting residents' needs were accomplished. CONCLUSIONS: Active participation of residents in a neighborhood park redesign requires time, commitment, and communication from a variety of stakeholders. However, the creation of a park that supports a variety of activity types, and builds community capacity, supports the need for involving stakeholders in redesigning neighborhood parks.