Calculated and perceived accessibility: A path analysis to evaluate satisfaction with access to green spaces

Parks and green spaces are important components of cities and play a vital role in individuals' well-being. Park quality and proximity to parks are key determinants of parks' usage and their associated benefits for individuals. Yet, most studies focus on users' satisfaction with park features, typically neglecting the influence of accessibility to parks. While a few studies have investigated proximity to parks, accessibility is a multidimensional concept that depends on multiple land use, transport and individual factors. Therefore, this study analyzes the relationship between accessibility to parks (both calculated and perceived) and satisfaction with accessibility. Three calculated accessibility measures (number, area, and quality of parks) and three perceived accessibility measures are assessed (overall access, parks meeting needs, number of parks). The case study (Montreal, Canada) uses data from a representative online survey of residents ( n = 683). A path analysis is conducted to study the relationships between individual, land use and transport characteristics, along with calculated and perceived accessibility, to then assess the determinants of park access satisfaction. Results highlight the influence of walking infrastructure and walking to reach parks, as well as the lower perceived accessibility among women and lower-income individuals, and a strong association between perceived accessibility and satisfaction. Conversely, calculated measures of accessibility (e.g., number of parks) show clear shortcomings in understanding park access satisfaction. Thus, this study confirms the need for researchers and planners to assess individuals' perceptions of land use and transport infrastructure, along with their needs and preferences when analyzing residents' satisfaction level with park access. • A strong association between perceived accessibility and satisfaction is found. • Key influence of walking infrastructure and walking to parks. • Lower perceived accessibility among women and lower-income individuals. • Calculated measures reveal gaps in understanding park access satisfaction. • Individuals' perceptions, needs and preferences can better explain satisfaction.