Downtowns need more than places to park and pass through. They need places where residents, workers, and visitors can sit outside, attend a small event, enjoy trees and shade, and feel that a neighborhood belongs to them.

Evidence-based insight

Green space supports mental and physical health

Access to urban green space is associated with lower stress, improved mood, more physical activity, and better overall well-being. A review of neighborhood green-space research found that most studies identified protective mental-health effects, especially for vulnerable populations.

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