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59 <br />STATISTICS <br />TREND 7 <br />INCLUSIVITY + ACCESSIBILITY <br />Adaptive and inclusive programming in parks and <br />open spaces is crucial for promoting a diverse <br />and cohesive community. Prioritizing inclusive <br />programming creates opportunities for social <br />interaction and physical activity by catering to <br />individuals of all abilities and backgrounds. Not only <br />does embracing diversity in recreational activities <br />encourage understanding and empathy among <br />people, it also helps create better-functioning and <br />healthier community dynamics. <br />To ensure people of all abilities can participate, <br />local park and recreation agencies must make <br />changes to current policies and practices to become <br />more accessible and inclusive. <br />90% <br />1 in 3 <br />81% <br />of U.S. adults agree it is important that local park and <br />recreation agencies create and provide recreation <br />programming that is adaptive and inclusive so persons of <br />all abilities may participate <br />Park and recreation agencies offer adaptive/inclusive sports <br />activities <br />of U.S. adults want parks and recreation to ensure <br />inclusivity through policies and practices <br />Sources: “Parks and Recreation is Essential” - National Recreation <br />and Park Association (2023); “Top Trends in Parks and Recreation <br />for 2024” - National Recreation and Park Association (2024) <br />Figure 2.21: Inclusive and accessible <br />playground equipment <br />Figure 2.22: An accessible plaza area for a <br />person with visual impairments is crucial <br />Figure 2.20: ADA-accessible ramps help <br />those with physical impairments navigate <br />spaces