Green spaces for whom? A latent profile analysis of park-rich or -deprived neighborhoods in New York City

This study investigates the diversity of neighborhood types in which green spaces, particularly parks, are either concentrated or sparsely distributed across different segments of society in New York City. Using a latent profile analysis, the study presents a probabilistic classification of neighborhood typologies based on various combinations of multiple explanatory factors related to their socioeconomic characteristics as well as green space provision indices. Findings reveal that not all parks are designed equally nor do they have uniform impacts on certain social groups and places, but the distribution patterns of parks exhibit complex variations across a geographically and socially diverse collection of neighborhoods in New York City. The findings and methodology of this study can offer valuable reference data for policymakers and urban planners to establish more appropriate and context-sensitive solutions for urban greening and green space development that better address the diverse needs of various socioeconomic groups.