Developing a User-Friendly Tool to Evaluate Parks (2025)

Project Abstract

Landscape architecture is the development of public green spaces, like urban parks. Existing evaluation tools are often time-consuming and require specialized knowledge. This paper details the adaptation of a park evaluation tool to improve accessibility for a general audience, guided by feedback from non-specialist users and input from industry experts. We recommend presenting evaluation results through story maps. Guided by proof of concepts from Boston and Worcester, MA, story maps proved engaging and effective in highlighting the often-overlooked environmental benefits of urban parks. These findings support advocacy for landscape architecture and public education on its role in urban ecology.