This article summarizes how the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) used GIS data to complete a first-ever countywide needs assessment, which was equity-focused and identified communities with “very high” or “high” park need as measured by population density and a suite of parks metrics, including acreage, access, density, condition, and amenities. Knowing where these underserved areas are helps decisionmakers, DPR, cities, funders, and others to focus and prioritize resources in addressing park inequities. The article successfully makes the case that resources spent on hiring an internal GIS specialist pay off handsomely and efficiently.
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