Geographic Information Systems-Based (GIS) Accessibility Analysis for Neighbourhood Parks: The Case of McDonough County, Illinois

Open green areas and urban parks are important for quality of life in urbanized societies. Existing research shows natural elements in urban settings like trees and water contribute to well-being in various ways by offering environmental services and leisure spaces. This study examines the accessibility of neighborhood parks in McDonough County, Illinois using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) network analysis. The objectives are to evaluate spatial distribution, sufficiency, and accessibility of local parks to determine if services are adequately reaching the current population based on proximity and ideal walking distances. Neighborhood parks within a 10-minute walking distance are essential for residents' daily recreational needs. Sustainable development strategies require equitable access to public amenities. Accessibility measures like maximum travel distances, field sizes, and population densities inform park placement decisions. This research uses GIS tools to determine neighborhood park service areas by 5- and 10-minute driving and walking distances from park access points. Census data provides residential population distributions for sufficiency analysis. Field sizes are evaluated against optimal sizes for neighborhood park functions. Spatial indices establish degrees to which homes fall within optimally accessible park radii. Findings indicate some areas lack nearby parks. New development prioritizations are suggested. Photos from participant narratives reveal design elements supporting active travel. Innovative technologies tracking behaviors supplement statistical models. This interdisciplinary study integrates planning and public health by employing GIS, sensors, and user perspectives to examine relationships between the built environment, travel behaviors, and health. Results help design more activity-enabling landscapes. By addressing accessibility and residents' concerns, planning can enhance quality of life. Combating inactivity through improved greenspace provisions makes communities healthier and more livable.