Balancing Change and Preservation in Historic Parks

From pickleball courts and athletic fields to playgrounds and peaceful retreats, public parks are being asked to accommodate an ever-widening range of recreational activities. But how can historic parks accommodate today’s recreational needs without compromising the landscapes and experiences they were designed to provide?

Join the Olmsted Network for a conversation exploring the evolving relationship between active and passive recreation in historic parks. Drawing on the philosophies of Frederick Law Olmsted and the Olmsted Brothers, panelists will examine how recreational expectations have changed over time and what those changes mean for park stewardship today. Through historical insights, preservation perspectives, and real-world examples, the discussion will consider how parks can welcome new uses while safeguarding their historic character and enduring public value.

Speakers:

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