Parks as Places of Public Solace: The Perception of Parks after 9/11

Authors

• Ryan Hammond, University of Central FloridaFollow

Mentor

Dr. Peter Jacques

Abstract

This paper investigates the utilization and public perception of parks in New York City following the 9/11 attacks, using a quantitative content analysis of local newspapers published within a year of the attack, specifically looking for themes indicating how parks were perceived and used. My preliminary findings indicate that parks were frequently used for large gatherings and memorials, that people found solace in the parks themselves, and that communities either formed or strengthened through use of parks following the attacks. In conclusion, the creation and promotion of large common green areas in urban spaces may serve as a means of promoting the long-term mental and social well-being of a community.

About the Author

Ryan Hammond is a Biology major with an Environmental Science minor. He plans on graduating spring 2016. His main research interest is in urban ecology, particularly in urban soil and plant communities and ways they can be improved to host and promote both endemic and native species, as well as ways to maximize their potential ecosystem services to urban inhabitants.

Recommended Citation

Hammond, Ryan (2016) "Parks as Places of Public Solace: The Perception of Parks after 9/11," The Pegasus Review: UCF Undergraduate Research Journal: Vol. 8: Iss. 2, Article 3.
Available at: https://stars.library.ucf.edu/urj/vol8/iss2/3