For nearly 30 years, studies of the causes of urban violence have reported the concerns of urban residents about parks and recreation opportunities. However, the crisis in urban open space that existed in 1968 is essentially unchanged. In many central cities, parks are more dangerous and poorly maintained than ever, and fewer opportunities for recreation exist than at any time in the past. Because 40 percent of a schoolage child's hours are discretionary, recreation opportunities are crucial. Several cities have documented significant decreases in juvenile arrests following the establishment of recreation programs. Creating new open space is an urgent priority, because land is rapidly being lost to development or priced out of range. Traditional funding sources are insufficient to meet the needs of newer, growing cities and older urban centers. For the past 20 years, the Trust for Public Land has brought together public and private resources to expand public open spaces. Through the Green Cities Initiative, the Trust will work with civic and business leaders for the goal of bringing more functional, accessible, and safe parks and public open space to urban communities.