Exploring Factors That Influence Green Space Engagement in Florida

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Abstract
Urban parks are widely recognized for their mental health benefits, especially among frequent visitors. However, the factors underlying regular park use among older urban residents remain poorly understood. This study examined park features, motivations, and barriers associated with park visitation frequency among Florida residents aged 45 and older. Using an online survey panel, data were collected from 1,237 participants across Florida's urban areas. Respondents were classified as frequent visitors (≥ once per week; 33.0%) or infrequent visitors (< once per week; 67.0%). Logistic regression was used to examine associations between perceived features, barriers, motivations, and visitation frequency. Among all barriers tested, only perceived distance significantly predicted infrequent visitation (OR = 1.99, p = .002), while commonly cited obstacles such as lack of time and weather did not reach significance. Among individual motivations, exercise (OR = 2.31, p < .001) and walking dog (OR = 2.10, p < .001) were significant predictors of frequent visitation. Connection with nature (60.9%), stress relief (56.3%), and exercise (48.3%) were the most commonly reported motivations overall. Frequent visitors were more likely to prioritize active features such as walking and biking paths and open spaces, while infrequent visitors favored quiet environments, safety and visibility, and seating areas. Older age and being male were significant sociodemographic predictors of frequent visitation. Natural vegetation and tree cover did not significantly predict visitation frequency. These findings suggest that park programming and design strategies aimed at building motivational pull, particularly by supporting structured physical activity, may be more effective at promoting regular engagement with urban green spaces than focusing primarily on barrier removal.

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