A new study finds that interim recreational use of underutilized sections of crowded cities can benefit more than just humans.
Adina Solomon shares news of research recently published in the Environment International journal that finds evidence of the health, social, and environmental benefits of urban green space, and makes the case for interventions that create new urban green space, even if just temporarily.
Solomon explains:
Sometimes, cities lack large greenspace not only for people but for wildlife — the insects, birds and other animals that make for a balanced ecosystem.
One answer to this issue? Pop-up parks, according to a new study examining their effects on biodiversity.
Luis Mata, ecologist with the People, Nature, Place research program at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University’s Centre for Urban Research, and team examined the Grasslands, a six-week park in Melbourne.
"Like many pop-up parks, Grasslands is not what many people envision when they think of greenspace," according to Solomon. But the park showed significant biodiversity in its insect and spider population, which means benefits for pollination and nutrient cycling.
To further exemplify some of the concepts and outcomes under examination by Mata's research, Solomon also cites the example of the Pop-Up Urban Park in Wichita, Kansas.
FULL STORY: Pop-Up Parks Lead to More Biodiversity in Cities, Study Finds
Regenerating and Healing Land Through Parks
Through thoughtful planning and restoration efforts, parks can help heal degraded land, meeting multiple community needs, improving soil quality, restoring native vegetation, and creating habitats for wildlife.
Los Angeles County Parks Department Releases Five-Year Strategic Plan
The L.A. County Department of Parks and Recreation recently completed a strategic plan which details goals, strategies, and actions that reflect the agency's commitment to advancing equity.
Research Shows Urban Trees Stave off Depression
A new study shows that regular exposure to trees and green spaces has a powerful impact on depression and mental health.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Congressman Proposes Bill to Rename DC Metro “Trump Train”
The Make Autorail Great Again Act would withhold federal funding to the system until the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), rebrands as the Washington Metropolitan Authority for Greater Access (WMAGA).
The Simple Legislative Tool Transforming Vacant Downtowns
In California, Michigan and Georgia, an easy win is bringing dollars — and delight — back to city centers.
Supporting Cycling Takes More Than Just Bike Lanes
Safe, protected bike lanes are a key part of a city’s bike infrastructure — but secure parking, e-bike charging, and other amenities can also influence people’s shift to cycling.
Judge Blocks Anti-DEI Rules for Transportation, Housing Grants
A second injunction blocks the Trump administration from enforcing new regulations for federal funding.
Unhoused People in San Jose Could Face Arrest if They Refuse Shelter
A policy proposed by the city’s mayor would give law enforcement the option to arrest homeless residents if they refuse three offers of housing.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Smith Gee Studio
City of Charlotte
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
US High Speed Rail Association
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
Municipality of Princeton (NJ)