The Economic Value of Protected Open Space in Southeastern Pennsylvania

Southeastern Pennsylvania has an enviable collection of protected open spaces, including parks, working farms, trails, nature preserves, and historic and cultural landscapes. Besides providing aesthetic and “sense of place” value, these open spaces actually save us money and support our economy.

Commissioned by the GreenSpace Alliance and the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, this study quantifies the value of open space in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties. The study – the first of its kind for southeastern Pennsylvania – examines the economic benefits associated with preserved open space in four key areas: property values, the environment, recreation and health, and jobs and revenue.