Seattle lands top 10 park ranking — again

• It's the sixth year Seattle has placed in the top 10.

Why it matters: Parks are critical public infrastructure — places that support mental health, exercise and community connection, according to the index.

Zoom in: Seattle scored high for park access, with 99% of residents living within a 10-minute walk of a park, far above the national average of 76%.

• The city also earned top marks for park investment, spending about $440 per resident on parks and recreation compared to the national average of $154.

Yes, but: Seattle's ranking took a hit on park size and amenities such as off-leash dog parks, restrooms, playgrounds and sports areas.

Zoom out: Washington, D.C., again claimed the top spot for best big-city park system in the country, followed by Irvine, California; Minneapolis; and St. Paul.