National Competition Could Mean Cash for Berkeley's Parks

Berkeley is home to more than 50 parks, each with a unique vibe and a different set of locals — and many in need of some extra cash to cover repairs and renovation. Berkeley's Rose Garden, for example, is in . The pavements are cracked and worn, and weeds sprout among the roses.

But the Rose Garden, or any of Berkeley's Parks, could win a cash prize through Coca-Cola's "America Is Your Park" national campaign. The California Department of Parks and Recreation is asking park-goers to vote for their favorite parks in this competition, and help inject some much-needed cash to national, state or local parks. The parks that receive the most votes will receive grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000. 

Participants can vote online at www.livepositively.com by selecting a park from an interactive map, by uploading photos to the site, or by "checking-in" to a park on Facebook. One point is given for each online vote, while five points are awarded for uploading photos or checking-in on Facebook. The higher points were included as an incentive to get out and visit parks, according to organizers of the campaign. Voting will continue through Sept. 6.

For a list of Berkeley's parks, visit the Parks, Recreation and Waterfront section of the city's website.