Shared Use of Private Property While shared use often happens on public property, it is important to also consider private property. Many communities require that new private housing and workplace developments include public spaces. And more and more community-based and faith-based organizations are implementing shared use. Many of these institutions have underused property and recreational facilities they can share with the public. Faith institutions often have a variety of recreational facilities – gymnasiums, playgrounds, multi-use rooms, walking trails, gardens, and even parking lots – where people can be active. Faith institutions often have other types of facilities, such as kitchens and meeting rooms, that can be opened for community use. Across the country, congregations are embracing shared use as a way to create more opportunities for play and exercise and to improve the health of both their own members and the wider community. In many cases, these shared use efforts connect to broader congregational efforts to connect with and support their neighbors. Hospitals are also increasingly opening their facilities for community use. Many hospitals are working to support active living by building playgrounds, exercise facilities, and walking trails on hospital and office grounds. These hospitals often allow community access to these facilities, supporting both patient and community health. Finally, housing, workplace, and retail developments often have or are required by zoning to provide common areas such as central greens, courtyards, plazas, rooftop gardens, exercise facilities, and playgrounds. These existing public spaces are excellent candidates for shard use partnerships. For example, Asian Services in Action, a local health and social services organization in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, has partnered with a shopping center to offer tai chi classes for seniors in the plaza area. 11 Shared Use | changelabsolutions.org
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