Richmond named ‘Playful City USA’

It’s time to join in the fun and get active, because Richmond has been named a 2016 Playful City USA for the first time.

KaBOOM’s national recognition program gives this designation to cities and towns that are making their cities more playful. It’s the result of a partnership between the city’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities (PCRF), the Capital Region Collaborative and Active RVA (a program of Richmond Sports Backers).

According to a statement from Sports Backers, Richmond received the designation because of its efforts to create a healthier community through its natural resources, partnerships and innovative programs such as the James River Park System, the ARCPark, the Children’s Museum and the annual Dominion Riverrock festival.

“This recognition is a great accomplishment as we continue to grow and highlight the abundant recreational opportunities available in Richmond.  Playability adds to the quality of life for all members of our community, and especially families,” said Mayor Dwight C. Jones in a prepared statement.

With Richmond being a Playful City USA, the city will receive gateway road signs, policy tools that leverage up-to-date city data and play space-mapping data, and access to grants that support increasing opportunities for play.

To learn more and see the full list of communities named 2016 Playful City USA honorees, or to gather more information on the Playful City USA program, visit www.playfulcityusa.org.