Nicholls, S. & P. Latkova, 2004, Do socio-economics influence access to open space? A case study from Michigan, in: OPENspace, ‘Open space, people space’, OPENspace, Edinburgh
- Author : Nicholls, S. & P. Latkova
- Year : 2004
- Published in Book : Open space, people space
- Abstract in English : Recognition of the link between physical inactivity and poor health has placed increased attention on the provision of adequate access to places that encourage physical exercise. Consideration of access to public amenities raises the issue of distributional equity, a less researched topic addressing the question of ‘who gets what’ in terms of the distribution of public goods and services. In this study, levels of access and equity associated with the distribution of public parks in a Michigan city are determined. An equal opportunity definition of equity is adopted, such that all residents, regardless of status, are expected to enjoy an equal chance of living within various, specified distances of a park. Results suggest that, in this city, public parks are distributed equitably. There were very few differences in socio-economic and demographic status, and housing stock and tenure, between census blocks located within, and those beyond, the park service areas delineated.
- Comments/Notes : KEYWORDS: public parks, access, equity. [paper 6 p].