[Publius Valerius]

How exactly does a privatized park, as opposed to a public park, work? Does the government give a contract to the cheapest bidder for park management?

My hometown, Indianapolis, has privately run parks. Once upon a time, the city used to run golf courses as part of its park system, but about 15 years ago, it contracted out the management of the golf courses to private companies. It's worked pretty well, at least from this user's perspective (the courses have been much better maintained since they went private). Here's a brief article discussing the contract, which was recently up for renewal.

http://www.ibj.com/city-ready-to-award-new-golf-contracts/PARAMS/article/15212

[r9etb]

Once upon a time, the city used to run golf courses as part of its park system, but about 15 years ago, it contracted out the management of the golf courses to private companies.

Contracting out the operation of certain services nevertheless implies government ownership....