The past year introduced new ways of experiencing parks and greenspace, as the Covid-19 pandemic, which initially prompted widespread lockdowns, subsequently inspired millions of Americans to seek out open space near their homes. As Americans increasingly get vaccinated, mayors expect residents to spend more time visiting parks and greenspace than they did before the pandemic. But past discrimination against Black park-goers has shed light on a real problem: Are BIPoC communities able to access and safely use parks without fear of police? And are the quality of those parks equitable? Boston University’s Initiative on Cities took this issue to 130 mayors from different political backgrounds, and published the findings in their latest 2020 Menino Survey of Mayors on Urban Parks and The Public Realm.
Findings include:
- 7 in 10mayors
confirmed that all their residents, regardless of race, ethnicity or income, live within easy walking distance of a park
- 77%
believe that parks are safe for all users, with a similar percentage believing Black residents, specifically, are able to safely use parks without fear of police despite several high-profile incidents against Black park-goers
- 52%of mayors
believe the quality of greenspace differs across neighborhoods, suggesting a recognition of inequitable quality
The 2020 Menino Survey of Mayors details perspectives shared by a representative sample of 130 mayors leading U.S. cities with populations of more than 75,000 residents. Now in its seventh year, the Menino Survey is based on live interviews with mayors on their pressing challenges, priorities, and expectations for the future.
- Report
2020 Menino Survey of Mayors: Urban Parks and The Public Realm – Equity & Access in Post-Covid Cities
The past year introduced new ways of experiencing parks and greenspace, as the Covid-19 pandemic, which initially prompted widespread lockdowns, subsequently inspired millions of Americans to seek out open space near their homes. As Americans increasingly get vaccinated, mayors expect residents to spend more time visiting parks and greenspace than they did before the pandemic. […]Download PDF