Bush: Enjoy the great outdoors during this Park and Recreation Month

GRAYSLAKE — It’s National Park and Recreation Month, and State Senator Melinda Bush (D-Grayslake) is encouraging Lake County residents to take advantage of the dozens of parks in the area.

“It’s the perfect time of year to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful parks Lake County offers,” Bush said. “Whether going out for a leisurely jog with friends or having a picnic with family, parks present so many opportunities for enjoyment and community.”

According to the National Recreation and Park Association, parks play an important role in maintaining quality of life in a community. Parks provide gathering places for members of a community to interact with each other, host public events and offer recreational programs.

Additionally, parks provide a public place where people can go to keep healthy and fit. A Penn State University study showed that the length of visits to parks has a connection with reductions in stress, lowered blood pressure, and perceived physical health.

Parks also provide an economic benefit to their communities. A review by Texas A&M University found that parks and open space raise nearby property values and increase revenue from tourism. Trees and other growth are also estimated to save cities money in environmental impacts and the effects of storms.

“The local parks and recreation opportunities throughout Lake County give residents so many options to enjoy the fresh air and get active,” Bush said. “Visiting local parks is one of my favorite things to do — and I hope to see you out.”

Learn more about local parks and public events by visiting LakeCountyParks.com.