Population Density, Funding Per Capita, And Availability Of Recreational Trails And Facilities In Tennessee Communities

Abstract

Relationships between physical activity (PA) and region, prospects for PA in rural and urban communities, and associations between PA and land use have been documented. It is, however, unknown whether population density is a predictor of area PA prospects or if recreational government funding per capita may be related to PA participation opportunities. The relationship between population density and opportunities for PA has also not been examined. PURPOSE: The purposes of this study were to determine the relationship between population density and availability of recreational facilities and trails, and to examine the relationship between recreational government funding per capita and the availability of recreational facilities and trails located in that area. METHODS: Local government, recreation, and park providers in all Tennessee counties were surveyed. Questions from Section II of the Tennessee Healthy Living Index were used, including annual budget for parks and recreation, availability of public pools, weight-training facilities, and multi-use trails. Population and county classifications were obtained using U. S. Census Bureau data. RESULTS: Complete data were obtained for 57 counties (60%), representing a wide range of population densities and recreational per capita funding. Recreational funding per capita was significantly correlated with total facilities available (P < 0.05). Population density was significantly correlated with per capita funding (P < 0.05) and total facility availability (P < 0.001). Population density significantly predicted total facility availability (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that more densely populated areas offer more recreational facilities which provide opportunities for PA in the state of Tennessee. This disparity may be addressed by increasing funding for facilities in low density population areas, thereby increasing PA opportunities. Subsequent research to document the impact of PA and related lifestyle interventions would reinforce the need for such funding.