The Economic Value of Urban Public Spaces

The purpose of this study was to gather evidence of the economic impact of well-designed and maintained public spaces, not to carry out an extensive economic impact analysis. Drawing from international case studies examined in this report, as well as the case of Emancipation Park, there is a preponderance of evidence demonstrating the economic impact of public spaces. In some cities, public space has been an important driver of tourism, and of small business development, and has enhanced the value of nearby property. In Jamaica the impact on health, direct value, and property value is evident. Further, with only 17 percent of visitors to Emancipation Park living in the New Kingston area, and nearly two-thirds living in other areas of Kingston and St. Andrew, there is a clear need for similar recreational spaces to be created in other areas of Kingston and St. Andrew. Taking into account all the evidence presented, there is a strong case for an increase in public investment in public spaces in urban areas.