City parks were originally created to provide the local populace with a convenient refuge from the crowding and chaos of their surroundings.
Until quite recently, these parks served their purpose admirably. Whether city dwellers wanted to sit under a shady tree to think or take a vigorous stroll to get some exercise, they looked forward to visiting these nearby oases. Filled with trees, shrubs, flowers, meadows, and ponds, city parks were a tranquil spot in which to unwind from the daily pressures of urban life. They were places where people met their friends for picnics or sporting events. And they were also places to get some sun and fresh air in the midst of an often dark and dreary environment, with its seemingly endless rows of steel, glass, and concrete buildings.
For more than a century, the importance of these parks to the quality of life in cities has been recognized by urban planners. Yet city parks around the world have been allowed to deteriorate to an alarming extent in recent decades. In many cases, they have become centers of crime; some city parks are now so dangerous that local residents are afraid even to enter them. And the great natural beauty that was once their hallmark has been severely damaged. Trees, shrubs, flowers, and meadows have withered under the impact of intense air pollution and littering, and ponds have been fouled by untreated sewage.
This process of progressive decline, however, is not inevitable. A few changes can turn the situation around. First, special police units, whose only responsibility would be to patrol city parks, should be created to ensure parks remain safe for those who wish to enjoy them. Second, more caretakers should be hired to care for the grounds and, in particular, to collect trash. Beyond the increased staffing requirements, it will also be necessary to insulate city parks from their surroundings. Total isolation is, of course, impossible; but many beneficial measures in that direction could be implemented without too much trouble. Vehicles, for instance, should be banned from city parks to cut down on air pollution. And sewage pipes should be rerouted away from park areas to prevent the contamination of land and water. If urban planners are willing to make these changes, city parks can be restored to their former glory for the benefit of all.
Based on the passage, which statement is MOST likely true?
(A) Modern city parks usually have their own dedicated security forces.
(B) Most cities were originally designed with future park needs in mind.
(C) Modern city parks face greater challenges than parks faced in the past.
(D) Most cities have reduced the number of parks to make room for housing.