Parks and open spaces contribute to neighborhood social cohesion

Human Impact Partners Evidence Base

In a study in Chicago, observations of vegetated areas with trees and grass indicated that green spaces contained on average 90% more people. In addition, 83% more people were involved in social activities in green spaces vs. barren spaces.

Sullivan WC, Kuo FE, DePooter Sf. 2004. The fruit of urban nature: Vital neighborhood spaces. Environment and Behavior 36(5):678-700.
Research shows that residents of neighborhoods with greenery in common spaces are more likely to have stronger social ties than those who live surrounded by concrete.

Trust for Public Land. The Benefits of Parks: why America needs more city parks and open space. 2005.
Residences with trees and lawn adjacent to high-rise dwelling cause more social interaction among youth and adults.

R. Kaplan and S. Kaplan (2005) Preference, Restoration, and Meaningful Action in the Context of Nearby Nature. In P. F. Barlett (Ed.) Urban place: Reconnecting with the natural world. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press. (Pp. 271-298).
After new parks open, neighbors are more likely to interact, take pride in their communities, and form neighborhood watch and other local improvement groups.

Trust for Public Land. No Place to Play: a comparative analysis of park access in seven major cities. November 2004.
Parks increase neighborly interaction and socialization.

Sullivan WC, Kuo FE, DePooter Sf. 2004. The fruit of urban nature: Vital neighborhood spaces. Environment and Behavior 36(5):678-700.