Using community-based methods to create a geospatial asset map of physical activity spaces in Pasadena, TX

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Urban Planning
• Geospatial Analysis

Background:

• Public health authorities support shared use of physical activity spaces to increase access.
• Pasadena, TX, was selected as the study area to assess physical activity opportunities and access.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify facilities in Pasadena, TX, offering physical activity opportunities.
• To analyze community access to these spaces using geospatial methods.
• To map physical activity assets and identify access barriers.

Main Methods:

• A community-based approach was used to identify facility administrators.
• An online survey was administered to facility administrators regarding shared use.
• Geospatial analysis combined local data with survey results to create an asset map.

Main Results:

• 53 facilities (parks, schools, faith-based organizations) and 131 amenities were identified.
• Playgrounds, basketball courts, and ball fields were the most common amenities.
• Inadequate access to physical activity spaces was identified, particularly in Northern Pasadena.

Conclusions:

• There is a significant need for more physical activity spaces in underserved areas of Pasadena.
• Future research should integrate community health data with geospatial mapping for better planning.
• Enhancing access to physical activity facilities is crucial for improving public health outcomes.