Preferring Local over Non-Local Parks? Green Space Visit Patterns by Urban Residents in Desert Cities, Arizona

Abstract

This study investigates whether residents in urban neighborhoods use nearby green spaces more frequently than distant ones. Using mobile phone tracking data from 2019, we analyzed visitation patterns to green spaces within walking distance of residence (i.e., local parks) in the Phoenix-Mesa urbanized area, Arizona, USA. Key findings include: (1) about 40% of neighborhoods with available local parks did not prioritize local park use, (2) both accessibility measures and neighborhood social composition were significantly associated with frequent local park use by residents, and (3) the association between the percentage of Hispanic residents and local park use varied non-linearly based on access to local parks (proximity and average size). We conclude by discussing the implications of these findings for urban green space planning and equity considerations.