McPherson Square in Center City

Overview of CapitalSpace

Washington has more public parkland per capita than almost any other densely populated U.S. city––16 acres for every 1,000 residents––offering natural areas, formal parks, and recreation amenities. In total, Washington has approximately 9,300 acres of diverse parks and open space.

October 8, 2009 Draft

Read the "Summary" section of the CapitalSpace latest draft plan.

A Vision

The CapitalSpace partners envision a BEAUTIFUL, HIGH-QUALITY, and UNIFIED park system for the nation’s capital that:

• Is SAFE and ACCESSIBLE to everyone who lives in, works in, or visits the city.
• Includes a variety of parks and open spaces that CONNECT communities.
• Incorporates STEWARDSHIP and CELEBRATION of natural, cultural, commemorative, and historic spaces.
• Provides a DIVERSITY of passive and active recreation.
• Contributes to a HEALTHY, SUSTAINABLE and LIVEABLE city.
• Serves as a national and international model of citizen ENGAGEMENT and parks and open space management and COLLABORATION.

Planning Concepts

The following illustrations reflect planning concepts to realize this vision. They are the first step toward developing a city-wide framework to achieve the full potential of our parks system.

Increase Access to Great Local Parks

A safe, accessible, and walkable green network connects neighborhoods to nearby open spaces and recreation. This network becomes an integral part of each community’s identity and character.

Celebrate the Urban Parks

The rich tapestry of urban parks are enhanced to create unique places, offering historical, commemorative, cultural, and recreational experiences that meet the needs of dense and growing neighborhoods.

Connect with the Rivers

Washington’s vibrant parks along the Anacostia and Potomac are linked together. Improved access to recreation and cultural amenities that emphasize sustainable practices draw people to and along the rivers.

Weave Greenways Through Neighborhoods

A continuous greenway connects the city’s outer neighborhoods. The Fort Circle Parks become destinations attracting residents and visitors to historic sites, the natural environment and many recreational opportunities.

Link the City with Green Corridors

Leafy streets, winding parkways, and natural trails connect residents and visitors to major parks as well as enhance the regional transportation network.

Expand Park System Capacity

Our existing parks are maintained and enhanced, and new open spaces are identified to meet the city's expanding needs for accessible recreation and green spaces, with special attention focused on growing and underserved neighborhoods.

Protect, Connect and Restore Natural Environments

Natural resources within the City's parks and open spaces, including wetlands, floodplains, wooded areas, streams and rivers offer habitats and provide beneficial ecological functions that support a sustainable and liveable city.