Park access describes an area’s fair quantity and proximity to quality parks, green spaces, recreational facilities, and gardens. Parks and open spaces can benefit one’s health and well-being as well as foster a strong community between residents. Studies have demonstrated that access to parks and greenspace can increase children’s physical activity, reduce stress, and improve academic performance.

 

However, not all communities have access to these resources. In particular, lower income communities do not interact with green space and the outdoors in the same capacity as those in single-household homes or affluent areas. According to the California Department of Parks and Recreation, 61% of California residents live in areas with less than 3 acres of parks or open space per 1,000 residents. Park access is instrumental in the effort to improve public health. 

 

The Parks Needs Assessment Plus ( PNA+), adopted in 2016, serves as LA County’s strategy for land conservation and restoration. Spearheaded by the Los Angeles County Department Parks and Recreation (DPR), the PNA has directly influenced the success of Measure A, which was approved by nearly 75% of voters in November 2016 and promotes dedicated funding for areas with a lack of parks. The location of parks and recreational opportunities is a valuable data set that can connect users to their local resources and help researchers visualize green space. Park access can also be an effective tool for jurisdictions to gauge which areas lack green spaces and guide future park planning.