AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) is getting national recognition for its service to the community.
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) recognized the department as one of the most elite agencies in the country. Those organizations say the department exceeded standards set for management, maintenance, facilities, resources, programs, safety and services.
The accomplishment was awarded during the 2023 NRPA Annual Conference.
As part of the accreditation process, the PARD had to demonstrate compliance with 154 recognized standards and document all policies and procedures, according to a press release from the City of Austin. Often, the process helps identify efficiencies and heighten areas of accountability, which translates into higher quality service for the community, the City said.
"Receiving CAPRA accreditation is a remarkable achievement that reflects the unwavering dedication and professionalism of our exceptional team," said Kimberly McNeeley, director of the PARD.
The PARD maintains 355 parks and over 20,000 acres of land and water. It also provides a range of services including historic sites, seasonal events and community.
The process for accreditation involves a formal application, self-assessments, a site visit by a team of trained volunteers that results in a written report and a hearing with the commission.
The commission is made up of representatives from NRPA, the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials, the International City/County Management Association, The Academy for Leisure Sciences, the Armed Forces Recreation Network, the Council of State Executive Directors, The National Recreation and Park Ethnic Minority Society, The National Association of State Park Directors and the American Therapeutic Recreation Association.
For more information about CAPRA accreditation, visit nrpa.org/CAPRA.