As city populations grow so does the need for green spaces in our urban environments. With rising concerns about climate change city planners, elected officials and community advocates are looking at the importance of parks in urban environments.

In central Ohio 14.2 million people visited the Columbus Metro Parks last year, up over 30% from 2019.

And there is a new park to explore with Quarry Trails now open on Columbus' west side. It offers 62 acres of hiking, mountain biking and outdoor adventures with more on the way The park will eventually grow to 220-acres and include a sledding hill, dog park and more.

The Metro Park's 49th annual Winter Hikes series kicked off earlier this month. You can walk under the lights at five parks during the evenings this month and enjoy hot chocolate every Sunday.

We take a look at what is going on at Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks.

Guests:

Kimberly Burrowes is a technical assistance manager in the Research to Action Lab at the Urban Institute
Tim Moloney, executive director of Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks
Jill Snyder assistant manager of interpretation and education, Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks