Playgrounds from Start to Finish: Fund, Design, Build

By Rick Dandes

Whether you are building a playground from the ground up or upgrading and re-imagining an existing space, there are some basic principles that experts say stakeholders should adhere to. These "basics" are the foundations of any building project: planning, funding, design, construction and, ultimately, sustainability.

Making the Most of Public-Private Partnerships: Trends in Park Foundations & Beyond

By Chris Gelbach

If you want to ensure your park district or department can expand its reach as far as possible, partnering with outside organizations is one path to success. Creating park foundations and friends groups is a smart way to do more with less.

Hindsight Is 2020: Landscape Trends That Are Making a Difference

By Kelli Ra Anderson

The coronavirus pandemic has presented some unique challenge to recreation, sports and fitness facilities, leading to innovations in design for what's outside.

Smart Strategies: Trends in Pool Renovations

By Deborah Vence

Using smart strategies and innovations can make all the difference in getting your pool into tip-top shape. By establishing a set of goals and conducting a thorough assessment of your facility, you can renovate your pool successfully—without breaking the bank.

Trends in Aquatic Facilities: A Look at Trends in Aquatic Facilities

This section of the Industry Report takes a deep dive into aquatic facility trends, including indoor and outdoor pools, splash play areas, waterparks and spas.

Trends in Health, Fitness & Sports Clubs: A Look at Trends in Health, Fitness & Sports Clubs

Health clubs felt the impact of the pandemic more than almost any other type of facility covered in the Industry Report. Here, we take a look at how they fared, and how they’re expecting to come roaring back to life as people seek out more fitness opportunities.

Emerging Trends in Sports Facility Design: Basic Design Principles With a Post-Pandemic Twist

By Rick Dandes

Sports facility design is always looking to upgrade the experience—for players, for viewers and for coaches and staff. This year is no exception, with special attention given to health.

Purposeful Pools: What's New in Natatorium Design

By Dave Ramont

Natatoriums are always working to enhance their offerings and draw a variety of users to keep their facilities successful, while also addressing the challenges of air and water quality.

Trends in Parks & Recreation: A Look at Trends in Parks & Recreation

Parks and recreation faced unique challenges over the past year, with more visitors to outdoor locations. This section of the Industry Report takes a look at this and other trends.

Our 2021 Report on the State of the Managed Recreation Industry: A Look at What’s Happening in Recreation, Sports & Fitness Facilities

Nearly 1,400 professionals responded to our call for information about their facilities, budgets, construction plans, operations, programming, staffing and more. Here, we summarize their responses.

If You Build It: Welcome the Community Outside with Site Furnishings

By Dave Ramont

As parks and open spaces experienced more visitors, the importance of site furnishings became even more evident. Site furnishings bring functionality and offer opportunities for social interaction, as well as shaping the identity of a space and creating orientation.

Trends in Colleges & Universities: A Look at Trends in Colleges & Universities

Colleges and universities have struggled over the past decade with state-level budget cuts, but continue to provide wellness, sports, fitness and recreation opportunities to their students, staff and communities.