New Park Development and Gentrification in New York City

• In Event: Lightning Session: Methods and Tools of Analysis & Housing, Community Development, and Urban Policy

Abstract

Urban parks promote public health, environmental quality, and overall well-being. Park development has emerged as a key place-based intervention to enhance livability in historically underserved communities. Yet these green investments can also accelerate neighborhood change, raising concerns about green gentrification.

This study examines whether new park development in New York City is associated with gentrification. Drawing on New York City park data, the Decennial Census, and the American Community Survey, I apply two-way fixed effects models to estimate neighborhood-level changes. Results show that new park development is positively associated with increases in housing values. The effect varies by neighborhood type, underscoring the uneven consequences of park development across different neighborhood contexts.

These findings contribute to debates on urban environmental justice and inform policymakers, planners, and advocates seeking to balance environmental improvements with social equity in urban development.

Author

• Hyesu Im, Georgia State University
  Presenting Author