The National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has launched an interregional program designed to garner new financial, political and public support for national park units—the designations given to collective properties within the National Park System including historic sites, recreational areas, and scenic trails—located in or near major cities. The NPCA's Urban National Park Initiative is researching and helping to address the specific and unique needs of national park sites in urban areas by:

• Identifying opportunities for alternative sources of federal funding to support park programs and projects;
• Pursuing relationships with diverse and potential private funding partners for urban parks; and
• Building and enhancing the relationships between urban parks and their constituencies, including members of Congress.

As the country experiences continued diversification and urbanization, look to urban national parks to offer a wealth of potential in expanding opportunities for residents and their cities. With their vast resources, these parks are perhaps the greatest hope for reconnecting the public to its national heritage and ensuring the continued relevance of the National Park System to all Americans. City Parks Alliance works with NPCA to link city park leaders from the public and private sectors with national park service sites in urban areas.