Shared Use Facilities
From the American Cancer Society, Facts: Joint Use Agreements Sharing School Recreational Facilities with the Community.
Shared Use Facilities in Wood County
The U.S. is in the grips of a full-blown obesity epidemic. The prevalence of those who are obese has risen to 34 percent. In 2009, adult obesity rates rose in 28 states, and in more than two thirds of states, obesity rates exceed 25 percent of all adults. In light of these dire statistics, it is critical to find ways to increase physical activity opportunities in the places where people live, work, learn and play. However, nearly 50 percent of U.S. adults and 65 percent of adolescents do not currently get the recommended amount of physical activity each day.
In order for adults and children to get the exercise they need to be healthy, they need places to be active. Research has shown that people who have parks or recreational facilities nearby exercise 38 percent more than those who do not have easy access.
School facilities, especially those that are centered in the community, can be an excellent resource for recreation and exercise where there is limited availability or private options are too expensive. The most innovative districts are maximizing joint use of school facilities to address the educational and health needs of students and the community’s need for recreational activity spaces.
In Wood County, we are researching utilizing other buildings, not just schools, including churches, malls, hotels and any other buildings which have areas that could be utilized for physical activity purposes.
Public Health Law and Policy, Opening School Grounds to Communities After Hours
For more information on Shared Use Facilities, please contact Wood County Health Department at 715.421.8911