Chattanooga Parks and Outdoors recognized as second best-performing social media operation in the country

Chattanooga Parks and Outdoors was recognized as having the top-performing Facebook page.

Chattanooga, Tenn. (April 11, 2024) – Chattanooga’s Department of Parks and Outdoors has been recognized as the second highest-performing social media operation in the country by Next Practice Partners, a national firm focused on strategic planning. 

Focused on building outdoor communities, Next Practice Partners put together its inaugural social media engagement national rankings to highlight parks agencies who recognize the importance of storytelling and engaging digital footprints in enhancing the well-being of communities.

The full report and its rankings can be seen here.

“Our work to bring Chattanoogans together and build community can’t be done without social media–or parks, for that matter. I’m endlessly proud of Brian Smith, Scott Martin, and the entirety of the Parks and Outdoors team for using social media in such an engaging way,” said Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly. “Their work is creating new community conversations while bringing people together in real life at our parks, whether that’s just to touch grass or attend one of many incredible events. Our outdoor assets are a secret to our success, and more and more people are discovering that secret every day thanks to Brian and the team’s work on social media.” 

“Public park and outdoor systems shape their communities the best when they are able to share with guests  timely and actionable information,” said Scott Martin, Administrator for the Department of Parks and Outdoors. “It’s best if we deploy our communication efforts to meet our guests where they hang out, and this means social media platforms. Working in this space requires focus, knowledge of audience identity, and consistent, timely, credible, and actionable information. Brian Smith curates this space for us with the same attention to design and audience experience that we aim to bring to park and rec program design.”

About The Department of Parks & Outdoors:

Our vision: A City in a Park. In Chattanooga, everyone will have access to a well-loved, well-used and well-cared-for system of parks, recreation, and outdoor spaces that fosters community belonging and well-being and enhances our unique and breathtaking natural setting. We are community builders, connecting all Chattanoogans and guests to the benefits of parks, recreation, nature, adventure, history, culture and the arts.

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