Rittenhouse Square is one of the busiest parks located in Center City. Ranging from street performers, farmers markets, and even dogs running around, there is always something going on. A street performer was singing in the middle of the park, and there was a crowd of pedestrians around him watching. Not too far behind him in the grass was Sarah Thompsan, running around playing with her dog. After living in Philadelphia for quite some time, she, and her dog Max, have decided that Rittenhouse Square is their favorite place in the city.
What part of the city do you live in?
I live in Washington Square. It is a super quick walk to get here from where my apartment is.
Why are you here today?
I am walking my dog Max. I think it’s important that we both spend lots of time outside. This is also one of the few places where he can run around and burn off all his energy. I think there is also something peaceful about being surrounded by nature, even though it is a small area.
How often do you utilize green spaces?
Personally I use them on a daily basis. Besides coming here for Max I also come here in my free time. I have done some picnics with my friends in the past, I sometimes do yoga if its nice enough out. I also love it when they have the farmers markets here. I always grab some flowers for my apartment.
Do you think there are enough green spaces in Philadelphia?
I think theres a good amount, you know like Fairmount or here, but Fairmount is kind of difficult to get to. I know there are lots of people who do not get to frequent the parks as much as I do which sucks. I think having lots of parks is a good thing, and that the city can do more for some people in other neighborhoods.
Why is it unfair?
Well for starters its a good way to build community. There are lots of other dog owners I recognize from coming here so much. Also isn’t it scientifically proven that spending time in nature is beneficial to humans? At least for me it helps me destress and feel more active. Im sure there are plenty of other people who are like that too who just dont know because they haven’t had the chance to really see what it can do for them.
Do you think anything needs to be changed about the green spaces in Philadelphia?
I think maintenance is important. There are so many people who come through here and it can get a bit messy. There have been so many times where Ive seen Max, or even the birds and squirrels with trash in their mouths. And that really upsets me. I think maybe even having more events can be fun. I know theres the farmers market, but Ive seen in New York City some of the parks have movie nights which would be so much fun. Or maybe even one of the nearby yoga studios can do an outdoor event. Theres so many ways to create a tighter knit community which I think can be beneficial to some many people who live here, especially some of the younger ones.
Why do you think its important to have green spaces in Philadelphia.
Have you seen those reports that state areas with no parks in a city are significantly hotter then ones that do have parks? Stuff like that blows my mind it really is unfortunate for the people who live there. Aside from the environmental impacts I think its important for children to have access to that. Before moving to Philadelphia I lived in Maryland. I remember going kayaking with my parents and playing soccer in the park with my friends. Having access to parks was something that impacted the way I grew up.
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