Research rarely measures the total economic value of parkland, partly because there is value from direct, on-site use as well indirect, off-site benefit.
A recent study by Colorado State University and Harvard Kennedy School looked at both direct and indirect benefit and found a $92 billion valuation for National Park Service Lands and Programs, far exceeding the cost of operating and maintaining the parks.
The study has relevance for evaluation of Riverfront Park. The study shows that whether or not Riverfront Park is used by residents of Dunlap or Germantown Hills, they derive benefit from the park.