skip navigation
MRSC logo

Have a Research Question?

Ask MRSC

Have a Research Question?

Ask MRSC
About Our Blog Our Authors

MRSC Insight Blog


Posts for Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Programs

Hidden in Plain Sight: Activating Urban Alleys

January 21, 2026  by  Lisa Pool
Category:  Streets and Sidewalks ,  Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Programs ,  Downtown Revitalization Series

Activating alleys is a revitalization strategy that carries the possibility of strengthening local economies, enhancing safety, supporting arts and culture, and aligning with statewide planning goals. How are Washington cities transforming these underutilized spaces?

Read more

A voter putting their ballot into a mailbox

November 2025 Ballot Measures: Cities and Towns

December 15, 2025  by  Steve Hawley
Category:  Public Safety and Welfare ,  Annexation ,  Parks and Recreation Finance ,  Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Programs ,  Transportation Finance ,  Licensing and Regulation ,  Ballot Measures ,  Business Licenses and Taxes ,  Property Taxes ,  City and Town Officials

A large number of city/town public safety local ballot measures appeared in the 2025 November general election, alongside those for transportation and parks and rec programs. Also appearing were a few charter amendments, citizens initiatives, and advisory votes. 

Read more

Using Arts and Culture to Revitalize Downtowns

March 12, 2025  by  Lisa Pool
Category:  Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Programs ,  Downtown Revitalization Series ,  Special Events

Actions that boost housing or attract new businesses can help revitalize downtowns by making them more attractive, but a strong arts and cultural program can also help build a sense of community, beautify neighborhoods, and strengthen the local economy.

Read more

Local Government-Supported Urban Agriculture Adds Equity and Climate Change Benefits for the Public

May 1, 2024  by  Alicia Bones
Category:  Climate and Sustainability ,  Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Programs ,  Inclusive Communities

Urban agriculture is more than just raising fruits and vegetables in a city setting: It can bring new economic opportunities, act as a small business incubator, be a source of fresh and healthy produce in food deserts, and reduce a community's greenhouse gas emissions. 

Read more

A crowd is gathered and sitting on the grass while a band plays in a covered area at the Seattle Center

Summer Festivals and Risk Management

April 17, 2023  by  Linda Gallagher
Category:  Emergency Management ,  Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Programs ,  Special Events

Summer festivals are a great way for local governments to bring people together but agencies should first undertake a variety of risk management steps to protect attendees, ensure smooth and efficient event operations, and make room for improvements for the following year.

Read more

Growing Cities: How Local Governments Can Promote Urban Farming and Community Gardens

March 30, 2017  by  Jill Dvorkin
Category:  Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Programs

With spring and warmer weather right around the corner (crossing fingers, here), it’s time to start planning and planting our vegetable gardens. This blog post will explore ways that local governments are helping to promote urban and community gardens and farms, and what more could be done to bolster the locally-grown food supply. 

Read more