In Decatur, we believe that parks are vital community spaces, and ensuring accessibility to these green havens is at the heart of our planning. This year, we’re proud to celebrate Walk to a Park Day on October 10th, a day that recognizes the importance of access to parks and promotes walking as a key component of a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.
Mayor Patti Garrett officially proclaimed October 10th as Walk to a Park Day at the October 7th City Commissioners Meeting, where Decatur Parks and Recreation staff were present to witness this exciting moment.
What is a 10-Minute Neighborhood?
Decatur’s 2020 Strategic Plan, Destination 2030, includes a bold vision: the “10-minute neighborhood” (MB.02). This concept focuses on ensuring that people of all abilities can safely access local amenities and activity nodes—like parks, shops, and services—within a 10-minute walk or bike ride, without needing a car. In a 10-minute neighborhood, most daily needs, including groceries, restaurants, playgrounds, and libraries, are all easily reachable.
How Does Decatur Measure Up?
Decatur is proud to be a city where 97% of our residents and employees live within walking distance of a park, far exceeding the national average of 54%. With over 60 miles of sidewalks and charming tree-lined streets, Decatur makes it easy to get outside, get active, and enjoy the natural beauty around us.
As we mark Walk to a Park Day, it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on how the 10-minute neighborhood concept plays a crucial role in our city’s design. By encouraging walking and biking to parks and other community spaces, we’re reducing our carbon footprint, fostering health and well-being, and building connections with our neighbors.
Why Walk to a Park?
Beyond the obvious physical health benefits, walking to a park promotes mental well-being, supports environmental sustainability, and enhances social interactions. Parks are where we come together as a community, whether it’s for a morning stroll, a weekend picnic, or an afternoon at the playground.
This October 10th, celebrate Walk to a Park Day with your friends and family by taking a leisurely walk to one of Decatur’s beautiful parks. Let’s continue to embrace the 10-minute neighborhood and enjoy the walkable, accessible, and vibrant community that we all contribute to.
Get involved. Get outside. And let’s keep Decatur moving!