Top U.S. Cities' Park Systems Ranked and Compared.

Dallas has jumped 10 spots in the ParkScore ranking, a respected national index of local park systems in the 100 largest U.S. cities, from 53 to 43. The ranking is based on five components: access, equity, acreage, investment, and amenities. Dallas outperformed most of the biggest Texas cities, with Plano ranking the highest among Texas cities at 16. The improvement is attributed to new investments and amenities, including dog parks, new basketball hoops, playgrounds, and benches, welcoming water fountains and signage at trailheads, and splash pads in underserved neighborhoods. The city spends $124 per person on its park system, compared to last year’s $109, according to the index.