“Ohlendorf: Uplifting Kinloch's main park sends a message that the world still cares”

AUTHOR: Mark Ohlendorf
DATE: June 2, 2021

Recent editorial coverage in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch regarding the serious problems impacting the city of Kinloch’s future correctly suggests that local, state and federal government agencies have a responsibility to help preserve this proud community. But private groups and nonprofit organizations also need to step up to help Kinloch and other distressed communities in our region to recover and thrive. And one of the best places to start such a recovery in Kinloch and other distressed communities is at the local park.

Parks play an essential role in our nation’s physical and mental health, yet not all neighborhoods have access to high-quality parks. Nowhere is this more evident than at Kinloch Park, one of the St. Louis County parks. Due to county budget cuts over the last two decades, this nine-acre park has deteriorated to the point where the community is deprived of a quality park for outdoor recreation and play. With over 35,000 individuals living within a two-mile radius of the park, many of whom experience poverty and chronic health problems, this public green space is one of the most high-need and high-impact places in all of St. Louis County.