Ensuring park equity: a California case study

Abstract

What determines park use by minority groups, and how can park equity be increased? To answer these questions, the study reviews the literature on the equitable use of parks, and analyzes the outreach strategies of 11 exemplary open space organizations with success in increasing park use by underprivileged groups. It finds that park suppliers can increase park use by making parks more accessible and welcoming, and incorporating the preferences of underprivileged groups in park design and programming. It suggests that the tripartite framework of distribution, accessibility and fit may be employed to plan for a more equitable use of parks.