Rethinking Urban Parks: Public Space and Cultural Diversity

by Setha M. Low, Dana Taplin, Suzanne Scheld

Urban parks such as New York City's Central Park provide vital public spaces where city dwellers of all races and classes can mingle safely while enjoying a variety of recreations. By coming together in these relaxed settings, different groups become comfortable with each other, thereby strengthening their communities and the democratic fabric of society. But just the opposite happens when, by design or in ignorance, parks are made inhospitable to certain groups of people. This pathfinding book argues that cultural diversity should be a key goal in designing and maintaining urban parks. Using case studies of New York City's Prospect Park, Orchard Beach in Pelham Bay Park, and Jacob Riis Park in the Gateway National Recreation Area, as well as New York's Ellis Island Bridge Proposal and Philadelphia's Independence National Historical Park, the authors identify specific ways to promote, maintain, and manage cultural diversity in urban parks. They also uncover the factors that can limit park use, including historical interpretive materials that ignore the contributions of different ethnic groups, high entrance or access fees, park usage rules that restrict ethnic activities, and park "restorations" that focus only on historical or aesthetic values. With the wealth of data in this book, urban planners, park professionals, and all concerned citizens will have the tools to create and maintain public parks that serve the needs and interests of all the public.

240 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2005

Reviews

[Christina Singh · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel weird reviewing a book I read for work but it is a book nonetheless, which means I must review it. Rethinking Urban Parks is all about how the NYC Parks scene became what it is today. This was such a great read for me because it helped me understand the history of NYC Parks - what parks represented in the 90s versus what they have become today. From playgrounds to art sculptures, and from trees to restaurants, this read covered the critical pieces of parks that NYers appreciate and value. As a Parkie, I really enjoyed this read & learned a lot. 🫡

[Lindsey Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book was nice a look into the value that urban parks really do have on a city, neighborhood, and even a single homeowner's pocket.