Using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) to Assess Use of Local Parks in King County

There is a distinct lack of data regarding current park use in King County, WA, which complicates public health strategies to encourage physical activity among residents. Working with Public Health – Seattle & King County and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity, this project piloted the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) to collect park utilization data for 39 parks across King County. The data was then analyzed to generate recommendations for resource prioritization to promote equitable access to safe places for physical activity among communities of color.

Community Partners: CDC Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity, Association of State Public Health Nutritionists, Public Health – Seattle & King County

Materials Available

• Poster

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Project Type(s): MPH Practicum

Author(s): Kimberly Siu

Program(s): Master of Public Health

Year: 2023

Adviser(s):

• Cristen L. Harris