Why Parks and Open Spaces Matter—And How We’re Building Them Into Every Neighborhood
At Brooks Resources, we’ve long believed that great neighborhoods aren’t just built with homes—they’re built with heart. And one of the most vital elements of that heart is access to parks and open space.
In Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND), it’s a core principle to ensure that every resident lives within walking distance of green space. This isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about health, connection, and long-term community resilience.
The Science Behind Green Space
Research consistently shows that proximity to parks and nature has profound health benefits. According to a report from the Trust for Public Land:
- People with safe access to parks and trails are more likely to be physically active, which improves both physical and mental health.
- Parks reduce stress, improve cardiovascular health, and foster social connection—all of which are key ingredients in the world’s healthiest communities.
As Dr. Howard Frumkin of the Trust for Public Land puts it, “If we had a medicine that delivered as many benefits as parks, we would all be taking it.”
In fact, in regions known as Blue Zones—places like Okinawa, Sardinia, and Nicoya—people live measurably longer lives. One shared trait across these communities? Daily movement in natural environments. Whether it’s biking to a local market, gardening, or gathering in a park, outdoor living is central to their longevity.
Parks in Our Neighborhoods
We’ve proudly incorporated hundreds of acres of parks, trails, and open spaces into the various communities we’ve helped shape over the years:
- Discovery West: Our newest development is a celebration of nature and creativity. With thoughtfully designed open spaces, trails, and art installations throughout the neighborhood, it invites residents to explore and connect.
- North Rim: Nestled on a hillside above the Deschutes River, this neighborhood offers direct access to trails and natural open space.
- Awbrey Butte: Features private open space and trail connectivity that links residents to nearby parks and scenic overlooks.
- NorthWest Crossing: Designed with easy access to both shops and green space in mind, whether by walking, strolling or rolling, this award-winning neighborhood includes several large parks, a pond, a community garden, dog park, and community gathering areas.
- Tree Farm: Surrounded by forest land, Tree Farm offers a unique blend of private open space and trails, with direct access to Shevlin Park, one of Bend’s largest parks.
- Yarrow and IronHorse: These Madras and Prineville communities include both HOA-managed and city-managed open spaces and are adjacent to regional trail systems.
We’re fortunate to be part of a community served by one of the most robust parks and recreation districts in the Pacific Northwest. The Bend Park and Recreation District manages more than 3,000 acres of parkland, including over 80 parks and open spaces, over 80 miles of trails, and three recreation facilities. Their work ensures that residents across Bend have access to nature, recreation, and community spaces that enrich daily life.
Over the years, we’ve collaborated extensively with Bend Park & Rec to dedicate and develop park land—an effort that continues to grow with each new project.
Looking Forward
As Bend grows, we remain committed to building neighborhoods that honor the land and nurture the people who live there. Parks and open spaces aren’t just part of our design philosophy—they’re part of our promise to create places that feel like home.
