Conservation and equity are closely tied together. Well-designed urban green space helps cities be more resilient by improving public health, building social connections, and protecting habitat and important ecological services. Unfortunately, cities with the most limited access to open space often face the most poverty, health inequity, and risks from climate change. These connections are very clear in Pasadena, Texas where swift demographic changes have compounded stark health inequities in socioeconomically vulnerable areas--areas that also face serious risks from heat stress and flooding (both exacerbated by climate change). Using surveys, interviews, workshops, and focus groups, my community-based research asks: How can nature be integrated into urban parks in ways that improve community resilience and provide the biggest benefits to underserved residents?
Results/Conclusions
This research was conducted as part of the development of the Pasadena Healthy Parks Plan. Thousands of community members provided input, including over 1,500 who responded to detailed surveys (online and by phone). Survey respondents closely reflected local demographics (approximately 70% Latinx). Overall, we found that (1) Not feeling safe was by far the biggest barrier to residents using local parks; and (2) More shade and more natural features and water were critical to making parks more relaxing and welcoming. These findings informed the development of science-based design standards for local parks that include incorporating nature and local ecology.