One of the unique — and at times frustrating — parts of D.C. is the mix of local and federal space in one city. This applies to parks, many of which are run by the National Park Service.

Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) will hold a town hall with NPS tonight “with expert panelists to explore many new ideas for the city’s federal parks and how residents can work with NPS, which owns most of the city’s parks, to enliven D.C.’s green spaces and adapt them to the needs of the individual neighborhoods where they are located.” Panelists include NPS’ Steve Whitesell, Downtown DC Business Improvement District executive director David Alpert of the Greater Greater Washington.

“Our parks town halls have already resulted in action to bring amenities for families and children to our downtown park,” Norton said in a release. “Congress has left NPS without anything close to adequate funding, but public-private partnerships are beginning to play an important role. Our panel of experts will help residents focus on making NPS parks come alive with playgrounds, community events, bikes, food, arts, music and other amenities in a smoke-free environment. Above all, I want to hear from residents.”

The meeting begins tonight at 6:30 p.m. at the Wilson Building. Ideas can also be sent to NortonEvents@mail.house.gov.

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