A GIS-based Decision Support System for Neighbourhood Greening

Abstract

A prototype decision support tool is described which provides options for the management of existing green spaces and for the establishment of new green space in suburban neighbourhoods. Suggested neighbourhood greening techniques include the naturalization of existing parks and increased foliage along streets and rights of way. The naturalization approach involves less frequent cutting in grassy fields, the introduction of native species, and the cessation of pesticide and herbicide applications. Increased plantings along streets and boulevards would improve the aesthetics of neighbourhoods, and may provide some relief from climatic extremes and urban heat island effects. The creation of new green space in already-built suburban neighbourhoods provides a longer term challenge to neighbourhood planners. Potential strategies include the introduction of small pocket parks and community gardens in vacant lots and school yards. Modelled outcomes from such neighbourhood greening strategies could be used in public meetings both to incorporate attitudes of the impacted community and to demonstrate benefits to a wider community. In particular, strategies should take into account issues of safety and perceived safety that commonly arise with the greater use of naturalization in green space management. The developed prototype decision support tool has been coded as an ArcView GIS extension and provides the opportunity to model and evaluate future scenarios better aligned to principles of sustainable community development. Three applications of this tool are discussed to illustrate some of the benefits of undertaking a range of neighbourhood greening strategies.

Urban Neighborhood Green Index – A measure of green spaces in urban areas

“…Detailed environmental policy must be formulated and implemented at neighborhood level with the help of resident welfare associations. Randall, Churchill, and Baetz (2003) suggested neighborhood greening techniques including the naturalization of existing parks and increased foliage along streets and rights of way. The naturalization approach involves less frequent cutting in grassy fields, the introduction of native species, and the cessation of pesticide and herbicide applications.…”

Urban Heat Islands: Observations, Impacts, and Adaptation

“…Some researchers have developed tools that urban planners can use to explore the effectiveness of various scenarios. Randall et al (2003) developed a geographic information system-based decision support system that illustrates the benefits of greening strategies, such as planting trees along streets. Shashua-Bar et al (2006) created a design instrument that assesses the thermal effects of residential street forms and vegetation.…”

Using a GIS-based network analysis to determine urban greenspace accessibility for different ethnic and religious groups

“…Mahon and Miller (2003) used a GIS to identify greenspace with high ecological, recreational and aesthetic value in order to protect certain greenspace areas from development. Randall et al (2003) presented a GIS-based decision support tool to model planning scenarios relating to the creation of new greenspace areas as part of neighbourhood greening strategies. Herbst and Herbst (2006) also described a GIS-based decision support tool to ascribe ecological and aesthetic value to greenspace sites for use in the planning process.…”