A record number of Americans, estimated at nearly 160 million, went to the polls to make their voices heard. This past week’s election, while at times exhausting, has left me inspired for the work ahead. We at The Trust for Public Land are eager to take on the most pressing challenges facing our communities.

Urban parks became a lifesaver this summer. In many cities across the northern hemisphere, people took advantage of the warmer months to go outside for a much-needed respite after weeks of stay-at-home orders due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, as colder weather looms on the horizon, is there still a role to for parks to play?

During the first wave of COVID-19, Park People’s survey of 1600 Canadians found almost three-quarters reported that their appreciation for parks and green spaces had increased. Also, 82% of Canadians reported that parks have become more important to their mental health during COVID.

The first section of The Underline, a long-awaited 10-mile linear park in Miami, is opening on November 16. The walkway is designed by the same firm that oversaw New York City’s now-famous High Line and is regenerating the spaces below Miami’s Metrorail system to a destination for urban hikers and art lovers.