Page 56 - Illinois Association of Park Districts Benefits of Membership 2017 - 2018

 Agencies generate a total of $371 million in capital investments for development and construction of new parks and recreational facilities, of which in-state suppliers of construction material and related equipment garner more than $337 million.
 Agencies’ capital spending supports about 4,000 construction jobs, many of which are union labor, with associated earnings of about $185 million.
 These units of local government account for $16.7 million in state income taxes on direct earnings annually.
 Agencies’ cumulative spending, earnings and other related economic activity contribute $3 billion to the state economy each year.
Conclusion
In addition to the undeniable benefits that park districts, forest preserves, conservation and recreation agencies provide to improving the quality of life, they also wield a tremendous impact as an industry on Illinois’ economy. IAPD members represent a significant segment of business activity within the state of Illinois. Park districts, forest preserves, conservation, recreation and special recreation agencies are good investments for Illinois residents.
ACTIONS
The Illinois Association of Park Districts will conduct ongoing research that shows the impact Illinois’ park
districts, forest preserves, conservation and recreation agencies have on the state’s economy.
In addition, the results of the research will be available to our membership. The IAPD membership will pay a portion of the research costs augmented by Friends of Illinois Parks donations. An example is The Economic Impact of Local Park and Recreation Agencies in Illinois, a study conducted in 2005 by Economic Research Associates (ERA) for the Illinois Association of Park Districts. The results of this study were compiled into a brochure titled Parks and Recreation Employs Illinois.
NOTE: The above position is based on findings presented in The Economic Impact of Local Park and Recreation Agencies in Illinois, a research project conducted by Economic Research Associates for the Illinois Association of Park Districts. The data in that study are derived from information spanning 2002 to 2004
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