Walking, hiking, and biking trails continue to be the top priority for Prince William County residents, according to the 2024 Needs Assessment Survey released by the county’s Department of Parks and Recreation. The survey, conducted every five years, measures how residents use parks facilities and programs and what they consider most important.
Community special events also ranked highly as a program priority. Seth Hendler-Voss, Director of Prince William County Department of Parks and Recreation, stated, “The feedback we receive through this survey is invaluable as it lets us know what the Prince William community values the most when it comes to parks and recreation services and where we can invest to improve. I’m happy to note the Board of County Supervisors’ recent investments in special events, park and trail maintenance, and historic preservation, match up well with the community’s top priorities. We’re on the right track and want the community to know that their voice matters.”
After trails, other top amenities included park restrooms, botanical gardens, natural wildlife habitats, and museums. For programs beyond special events, adult fitness and wellness offerings were next in importance followed by history programs, active older adult activities, and nature programs.
Survey results indicated that 81% of respondents believe fixing existing parks is “very important” or “essential.” In comparison, 56% prioritized expanding current facilities while just over half felt building new ones was very important or essential. Additionally, about 30% of residents said they travel outside Prince William County for recreation needs such as hiking opportunities or access to pools and better playgrounds.
The survey was conducted by Polco/National Research Center on behalf of the Department of Parks and Recreation. Findings from this assessment will inform future funding decisions aimed at addressing both current demands and anticipated needs in Prince William County’s park system.
A full report with detailed findings is available from the department.
