A GIS based approach to urban green spaces: Assessing accessibility to park areas in Karaköprü (Şanlıurfa) through network analysis

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Abstract
The adequacy and accessibility of active park areas in the district center of Karaköprü were evaluated using a Geographic Information Systems based network analysis approach. Transportation networks, neighborhood boundaries, population data, and park locations were subjected to accuracy checks and prepared for analysis. A service area analysis was conducted in ArcGIS, and pedestrian accessibility to parks was examined through 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 minute walking zones. The findings indicate that park areas are spatially unevenly distributed across neighborhoods and that significant differences exist in per capita park area. In the neighborhoods of Mehmetçik, Güllübağ, Seyrantepe, and Çamlıyayla, park areas are either absent or severely insufficient. In contrast, neighborhoods such as Doğukent, Çankaya, Esentepe, and Karşıyaka exhibit higher values of per capita park area. The districtwide average of 3.4 m² per person falls below commonly accepted planning standards. In some neighborhoods, walking times exceed six minutes, and in areas without parks, access is attained through adjacent neighborhoods. Ensuring fair and balanced access to parks is essential for spatial equity. In semi-arid urban environments such as Şanlıurfa and Karaköprü, the multifunctional roles of parks in supporting climate adaptation and enhancing urban resilience further increase their significance in planning processes. The study comparatively assessed accessibility patterns together with population density, and the spatial distribution of inequalities was illustrated through maps.

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