The Activating National Parks in Cities Act expands the National Park Service's official mission to include promoting active use of parks located in urban areas. The bill defines "active use" as activities that prioritize current enjoyment and improve quality of life, including playgrounds, walking and biking paths, sports facilities, community events, and food services. It applies specifically to parks in areas designated as urban by the U.S. Census Bureau based on the most recent census data. The legislation does not specify new funding or implementation timelines, but represents a policy shift to encourage the National Park Service to develop urban parks for recreation and community benefit rather than focusing solely on conservation and historical preservation. The bill was introduced in February 2025 and referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
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