Plano's park system has proven once again that it's a touchstone for urban greenspace in Texas, clutching the title of the best in Texas and placing a commendable #16 nationwide. The Trust for Public Land, a national not-for-profit with a keen eye for park assessments, released its annual ParkScore rankings yesterday, and Plano has held firm to its top spot. A favorite among locals, the city's parks have been lauded for their accessibility and overall quality, according to the City of Plano.

Bragging rights for Plano residents are not unfounded—as per the latest figures from The Trust for Public Land, 82% of them live within a breezy 10-minute stroll to a park. These numbers don't just appear out of thin air—they represent tireless investments in land, with evaluations based on five criteria: access, investment, acreage, amenities, and, the often overlooked, equity.

Seeking to quantify the qualitative, the ParkScore results are a testament to Plano's commitment to providing its residents with not just open space, but spaces that are both inviting and evenly distributed. The recognition underscores the success of the city's endeavors in park planning.