“In Parks, a Less Lonely Nation Gathers” — Architect’s Newspaper

Architect’s Newspaper published an article by Founding Principal David A. Rubin in their September Magazine. In his article, “In Parks, a Less Lonely Nation Gathers”, David explores the growing loneliness epidemic, and our responsibility as Landscape Architects to design spaces that invite connection and belonging.

David writes; “Crucial to successful public spaces, however, is accessibility for all. Our colleagues and collaborators speak regularly of “park poverty” to describe places—often but not always in economically challenged neighborhoods—that lack accessible, safe areas where kids can play or adults can walk, exercise, or sit and read. For mayors and city councils, these are blanks to fill in on their maps. In our frequent roles as planners, landscape architects analyze whole towns and regions to find areas where more park space is needed; ideally, people in cities and towns should have a park (or two) no farther than a 10-minute walk. And beyond the regulatory requirements of universal access, it should be reachable for the people most vulnerable to isolation—especially young people, seniors, or people with chronic illness—whether they arrive on foot or using a walker, wheelchair, or stroller.”
– David A. Rubin, PLA, CPRP, FASLA, FAAR

You can read the full article here.