NYC Council Issues “B” Rating for Parks Department, Cites Funding Needs
The New York City Council today issued a “B” rating for the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), highlighting the need for increased financial support to address staffing shortages and meet growing public demand for park access and maintenance.
The evaluation, released on 2025-10-10, is the second agency report card initiated by Speaker Adrienne Adams’ 2024 State of the City proposal. While acknowledging the DPR’s success in maintaining and improving the city’s parks and collaborating with community partners, the Council’s assessment points to underfunding from the mayoral administration as a significant obstacle. The report specifically calls for greater transparency regarding facility availability and improvements, as well as a renewed focus on parks located in environmental justice areas – communities disproportionately affected by pollution and lacking equitable access to green spaces.
“The Department of Parks and Recreation plays a vital role in maintaining and providing access to city parks and recreational facilities for all New Yorkers,” said Speaker Adams. “In recent budget cycles, the Council has fought to restore budget cuts to the Department and strengthen its capacity to serve our city, but our parks require greater resources.” The DPR manages over 30,000 acres of land, including parks, pools, and playgrounds, but receives comparatively less funding than parks departments in other major U.S. cities, according to a recent report by The Trust for Public Land. This lack of investment impacts the department’s ability to effectively manage its resources and address critical needs.
The Council’s recommendations include developing a clear strategic plan, determining optimal staffing levels, improving communication with community partners, and enhancing transparency around capital project budgets and timelines. Council Member Shekar Krishnan, Chair of the Committee on Parks and Recreation, stated the “B” grade “is indicative of the need for more funding and dedication to our parks.” You can find more details about the Council’s agency report card initiative here.
Officials indicated the Council will continue to advocate for increased Parks Department funding during upcoming budget negotiations.
