Department 01
Maintaining public parks, running community programs, and occasionally converting an abandoned construction pit into a fully functioning park through sheer force of will.
What We Do
Parks & Recreation is the largest and loudest department in Pawnee city government, responsible for every public green space, community event, and beleaguered construction project in town.
Founders' Park
What was once a dangerous, abandoned construction site is now the crown jewel of the Parks & Recreation portfolio: walking paths, a footbridge, and enough green space to host the entire Harvest Festival if the fairgrounds ever flood again.
Program
Maintenance, programming, and permitting for all city parks, including the newly opened Founders' Park — formerly known simply as "the Pit."
Program
Our flagship annual event. Corn mazes, kettle corn, and a petting zoo, run entirely by department staff on a budget that never quite adds up.
Program
Youth basketball leagues, senior fitness classes, and the occasional talent show that runs several hours longer than scheduled.
More Information
Directory
A full rundown of every park the department maintains, from Founders' Park to the still-in-progress greenway.
View parks →Reservations
Reserve a shelter, a field, or a spot for your event. See permit types, fees, and how long approval takes.
View permits →Calendar
Movies in the park, swim lessons, fun runs, and everything else happening across Pawnee's parks this season.
View events →Posted on the actual corkboard outside the Parks office
Founders' Park
Years of hearings, budget freezes, and one very memorable town hall meeting later, the Pit is officially a park. Bring your own folding chair.
Permits Office
Interested in setting up a pop-up shop in a public park? So is at least one of our own employees. Applications reviewed weekly.
Recreation Programs
Youth and adult leagues both accepting new players. Trophies awarded regardless of actual athletic merit.