Park Segregation and Park Access in Montgomery, AL

Abstract

This study examines park access from an environmental justice perspective, particularly in the context of cities with a history of segregated park systems. The goal is to understand how historical practices have led to contemporary park segregation. The study uses both quantitative and qualitative assessments to analyze park access in 62 urban parks in Montgomery, AL, through the lens of an environmental justice inquiry. These parks are divided into predominantly African American and white parks based on the demographics within a half‐mile radius of the parks. The study finds that past policies of park segregation continue to influence modern planning and contribute to current disparities in park access. Furthermore, the study stresses that an environmental justice perspective requires an evaluation of inequalities in park access using not only quantitative but also quality‐based measures. This study also illustrates that cities tend to focus on larger community parks, while smaller neighborhood parks are often neglected and require more attention from a spatial equity perspective. To achieve environmental justice, the study emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive assessment of park access for future park plans.