Communities must meet social, environmental and emotional needs in order to support everyday life. Public spaces play an important role in helping people relax, interact and feel included. In Bonn, parks are a central part of community life and were intentionally designed to serve residents. These spaces show how planning and organization can meet the needs of a diverse and growing population.
I learned about Bonn’s need for accessible and inclusive public green spaces. As a mid-sized but active city along the Rhine, Bonn is home to families, university students, professionals working in international organizations and older residents. Many people live in apartments without large private yards, so shared outdoor areas become essential. Public parks provide space for exercise, walking, biking, picnicking and informal gatherings. These spaces also create opportunities for people from different cultures and backgrounds to interact, which is especially important in an internationally connected city like Bonn.
