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PITTSBURGH -- Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis visited Point State Park in Pittsburgh on July 20 to highlight opportunities for all Pennsylvanians to get outdoors and experience the Commonwealth.
Davis presented a proclamation from Governor Josh Shapiro to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources announcing July 20 as Outdoors for All Day, highlighting the Commonwealth's wealth of public outdoor spaces that make Pennsylvania a place for a Great American Getaway for all Pennsylvanians.
The agency supports hundreds of outdoor-related projects annually, having invested $1.2 billion in 8,800 projects since 1995.
"During the pandemic, the Second Lady and I took the opportunity -- just as many Pennsylvanians did -- to enjoy our Commonwealth's incredible state parks," said Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis. "Now that our family has grown, we can't wait to take our daughter to some of the places we hiked and show her the wonders of nature. Our state parks are a true blessing, and on Outdoors for All Day, I would encourage every Pennsylvanian -- no matter what you look like or what your physical abilities may be -- to experience all of the benefits the outdoors can provide."
State parks like Point offer fantastic outdoor experiences that truly make Pennsylvania -- The Great American Getaway.
Outdoor recreation adds $17 billion to Pennsylvania's economy, supporting 164,000 jobs, and accounting for 2 percent of the Commonwealth's gross domestic product, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
"The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources supports local parks, trails and outdoor recreation-related projects across Pennsylvania to increase access and quality experiences in nature," Deputy Secretary Claire Jantz said.
Pittsburgh is home to 165 parks spanning 3,600 acres, each featuring its own unique identity shaped by its cultural resources, historic landscape, natural features, and recreational amenities.
The city boasts a top-20 ranked system nationally that has a range of activities that range from passive recreation to approved camping to help promote equitable access.
"One of the things I love about our great city is our fantastic parks," Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey said. "I and many residents enjoy every opportunity to walk, bike or just sit and enjoy the beauty of nature surrounding us. Point State Park is a great example of how green space makes the city a great place to live and play. The work the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources does makes it possible for everyone to enjoy quality outdoor recreation experiences."
The Department works to conserve and maintain Pennsylvania's public natural resources for the benefit of all people, including generations yet to come.
The Department is taking intentional action to ensure Department lands are accessible to all, to provide inclusive and equitable programs and services, and to recruit and retain a diverse workforce in a way that resonates with all Pennsylvanians, regardless of background.