Public parks hunt private aid

The state of Massachusetts, which has slashed park funding by almost 40 percent in the last four years, is soliciting private citizens to contribute money to maintain the public spaces.
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The effort has fierce critics, especially those who say it attempts to absolve state officials of responsibility for basic park maintenance. Debate is beginning to percolate over control of the parklands and donations, with some fearful the practice will result in donors placing private demands on public spaces. Others worry that parklands with wealthy neighbors will get more attention than those in poorer areas.

But state officials say the partnerships are the only realistic way for some 150 metropolitan park and state recreation areas to get visitor centers reshingled, paths repaved, and water fountains replaced during tight budget times.

http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2005/03/21/public_parks_hunt_private_aid/