Examining the Relationship Between the 3-30-300 Urban Forestry Rule and Resident Perceived Well-Being in Worcester, Massachusetts

Keywords: Green space, tree canopy, urban forestry, urban greening, well-being, Worcester, 3-30-300 rule
Abstract Type: Poster Abstract

Abstract

In cities, where buildings and roads dominate the environment, access to trees and public green space is essential to ensuring people’s well-being. In recent years, some municipalities have adopted the 3-30-300 urban forestry rule as a benchmark for urban greening, specifying that residents should be able to see three trees from their home, have 30% tree canopy in their neighborhood and live no more than 300 meters from a public green space. Studies show that when these thresholds are met, residents’ well-being improves. However, disparities across neighborhoods limit certain populations’ access to such amenities. This research examines the relationship between adult resident perceived well-being and access to tree canopy cover and public green space in Worcester, Massachusetts’ Main South neighborhood, where tree canopy is significantly lower than the city median. Using the 3-30-300 framework, I assess the effectiveness of tree canopy cover and urban green space on resident well-being. This study uses mixed methods, comprised of resident survey responses to understand access to and perceptions of trees and public green spaces in their neighborhood, and GIS analysis to evaluate tree canopy cover and residents' proximity to public green spaces. A positive association between the 3-30-300 thresholds being met and residents’ perceived well-being would identify gaps in local access to public green spaces. This study seeks to assess the value of greener cities and may inform municipal policies and strategies for improving the quality of life and well-being of Main South residents and others like them in other locations.