Comparative Analysis of Urban Green Space Accessibility in Coastal and Inland Cities

Thesis Abstract

Urban green space accessibility significantly influences residents’ quality of life, environmental sustainability, and social well-being, yet disparities persist between coastal and inland cities due to varying geographic, climatic, and infrastructural factors. This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of equitable access to urban green spaces in two selected coastal cities—Portville and Seaside—and two inland cities—Midtown and Riverton. The specific objectives include (1) assessing the spatial distribution of green spaces within the urban boundaries; (2) evaluating residents’ access using GIS-based proximity and service area analyses; (3) identifying socio-demographic determinants influencing access; and (4) examining policy implications for improving green space equity. The research leverages a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative spatial analysis with qualitative assessments of residents’ perceptions, guided by the social equity and environmental justice theories. The study adopts a cross-sectional research design, with a target population comprising residents aged 18 years and above in each city. A stratified random sampling method is utilized to select a total sample size of 1,200 respondents—300 from each city—ensuring representation across income, age, and gender groups. Data collection instruments include structured questionnaires capturing socio-demographic information, perceived access barriers, and utilization patterns, along with GIS datasets obtained from municipal planning departments for spatial analysis. The validity and reliability of survey instruments are established through pilot testing and Cronbach’s alpha, respectively. Quantitative data analysis involves descriptive statistics to characterize demographic profiles, while GIS spatial analysis employs Kernel density estimation and network analysis to determine accessibility levels. Inferential statistics—specifically, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and multiple regression analyses—are applied to compare green space accessibility across city types and identify significant predictors of access disparities. Thematic analysis is conducted on qualitative interview data to explore residents’ perceptions of green space quality and barriers, providing contextual insights into quantitative findings. Expected results anticipate that coastal cities will demonstrate higher overall green space availability due to proximity to natural landscapes but may exhibit spatial inequities due to urban sprawl, while inland cities may display more centralized green areas with potential accessibility limitations. The analysis is expected to reveal significant socio-demographic disparities, with lower-income and marginalized groups experiencing reduced access, exacerbated by urban planning policies. These findings aim to contribute novel insights into the spatial and social dimensions of urban green space accessibility, extending existing models by integrating comparative perspectives across diverse geographic contexts. The study's findings will inform urban policy recommendations aimed at promoting equitable green space distribution, emphasizing integrated planning approaches, community engagement, and inclusive design. It underscores the importance of spatial justice and environmental equity in urban development, advocating for tailored interventions that address specific challenges faced by both coastal and inland cities. In conclusion, this research affirms that equitable access to urban green spaces is pivotal for sustainable urban development and social cohesion, proposing a framework for policymakers to enhance green infrastructure that is both geographically and socially inclusive. The study suggests avenues for further longitudinal research to evaluate the effectiveness of implemented policies and the evolving dynamics of green space accessibility amidst urban growth.