Assessing Urban Green Space Accessibility and Its Impact on Community Well-being

Thesis Abstract

Urban green spaces (UGS) are integral components of sustainable city development, offering ecological, social, and health benefits that contribute significantly to community well-being. Despite their recognized importance, disparities in accessibility to green spaces persist across urban environments, often correlating with socioeconomic inequalities and spatial planning deficiencies. This study investigates the relationship between accessibility to urban green spaces and community well-being, aiming to empirically assess how proximity, quality, and availability of green areas influence residents' physical, mental, and social health outcomes within a metropolitan context. The primary objectives are to (1) evaluate spatial distribution and accessibility levels of UGS in the city; (2) examine residents' perceptions of green space quality and usability; (3) analyze the impact of green space accessibility on community well-being indicators; and (4) identify barriers inhibiting equitable access. The research employs a mixed-methods design, integrating spatial analysis with survey research to capture both quantitative and qualitative insights. The population comprises residents aged 18 and above in selected neighborhoods, with a targeted sample size of 600 respondents determined through stratified random sampling to ensure representativeness across socio-economic groups. Spatial data, including GIS layers of green spaces, road networks, and demographic information, are collected from municipal sources, while primary data on perceptions and well-being are obtained through structured questionnaires and focus group discussions. Data analysis involves Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques to map and quantify green space accessibility using measures such as the two-step floating catchment area method and service area analysis. Quantitative survey data are analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression models (specifically multiple linear regression) to identify relationships between green space access and well-being indicators, including physical health metrics, mental health status, and social cohesion scores. Thematic analysis is utilized for qualitative data from focus groups, providing contextual insights into community experiences and perceived barriers. The conceptual framework is guided by the Social Determinants of Health theory and the Environmental Justice paradigm, which underscore the influence of spatial and socio-economic factors on health outcomes. Expected findings are that higher accessibility to well-maintained green spaces correlates positively with improved physical health, reduced stress levels, and enhanced social interactions among residents. Conversely, neighborhoods with limited access and lower-quality green areas are anticipated to exhibit poorer health indices and weaker social cohesion. The study is expected to reveal significant disparities linked to socio-economic status, land use policies, and infrastructural development, highlighting spatial injustice in green space distribution. The study makes a substantial contribution to urban geography and public health literature by providing empirical evidence of the spatial and socio-economic dimensions affecting green space accessibility and community well-being. It offers a nuanced understanding of how urban planning policies influence social equity and health outcomes, advancing both theoretical and practical knowledge in sustainable urban development. Conclusions emphasize that equitable access to quality green spaces is pivotal for fostering healthier, more resilient communities. Recommendations include policy interventions aimed at optimizing green space distribution, improving connectivity through infrastructure development, and involving community stakeholders in green space planning. It advocates for integrated urban planning approaches that prioritize health equity, emphasizing the need for regular spatial audits and community engagement to address accessibility gaps. Future research directions suggest longitudinal studies to evaluate the long-term impacts of green space interventions and the potential role of emerging technologies such as remote sensing and participatory GIS in advancing equitable urban green space planning.