Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

Wooster Square Park

New Haven

CT

USA

Contributed by 
Natasha Berger
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
June 2, 2003
May 1, 2024

A beautifully landscaped, medium-sized, square shaped community park.

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

A beautifully landscaped, medium-sized, square shaped community park, with Victorian lampposts and benches. It is surrounded by a historic neighborhood. A vibrant, diverse population makes use of it by day and night. A great time to visit is the last weekend in April, for the Cherry Blossom Festival, which celebrates the park's many wonderful trees.

Access & Linkages

The square is accessible by foot, auto, or (to lesser extent) bus. A very open space, with clearly marked, geometrically laid out paths.

Comfort & Image

There is no single group that dominates. At any one time one may see middle-aged dog walkers, students in a pick-up softball toss, kids throwing frisbees or learning to ride a bike. It is well-lit at night, and generally one of the cleanest parks I've ever seen in the USA. Cars are parked along the perimeter, but the area is not congested with vehicles.

Uses & Activities

A great variety of uses! Dog-walking, bicycling, strolling, community celebrations.

Sociability

This is the friendliest, most open public place I've had the pleasure to experience. It is great for meeting neighbors, and many of the residents linger along the paths to catch up on the latest news. Everyone living here is proud of the park, and in fact, it is key to the healthy real estate values of the area.

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Related Links & Sources

Wooster  Square Park
Wooster  Square Park
Wooster  Square Park
Wooster  Square Park
Wooster  Square Park
Wooster  Square Park
Wooster  Square Park
Wooster  Square Park

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

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