The Cultural Asset of Our Parks w/MKE Parks Foundation

The episode kicks off with banter among the Imagine crew on the very novel topic of COVID. Mac, Lindsay, and David each share reflections on their favorite local parks—including Estabrook Park, a chain of parks along the Milwaukee River’s east side, and Grant Park and golf course.

Rebecca Stoner, the Milwaukee Parks Foundation’s Executive Director, and Tristen Shorter, the Milwaukee Parks Foundation’s Director of Communications join the Imagine crew around 12:15. In the course of the conversation, they reflect on the similarities between the Park Foundation’s function and Imagine MKE’s role in advocating for “non-mandated services” that enhance the quality of life and contribute to wellness in our city. After decades of disinvestment, the Parks Foundation was created to help support the future of the 150 Milwaukee County parks, trails and beer gardens, with a specific focus on building equity: disinvestment in parks has hit Black and Brown communities disproportionately. They share facts including that the parks’ budget remains the same as it was in 1985, with less than half of the fulltime employees. Stoner also shares the staggering statistic that each of the current Park employees is responsible for maintaining the equivalent of 28 Lambeau Fields of land.

Despite the challenges, the parks were a lifeline to residents during the pandemic, and they enjoy a robust life as centers of recreation and artistic performances—including as the setting for beloved events like Chill on the Hill, Bastille Days, and China Lights. Milwaukee Parks also have a rich history of commissioning local artists to create sculptures and maps in response to park spaces. Stoner and Shorter both see hope and opportunities to make Milwaukee a healthier, safer, and more vibrant city through fostering more of a sense of belonging in parks for all Milwaukee residents.

Follow The Milwaukee Parks Foundation

Facebook and LinkedIn: @milwaukeeparksfoundation Insta: @mkeparksfoundation

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