Green Gentrification and Urban Parks: Exploring the Complex Dynamics of Commercial Transformation

Urban parks have long been celebrated for their ecological, social, and economic benefits. However, their role in commercial gentrification, especially in rapidly developing urban landscapes like Shanghai, remains relatively unexplored. This research paper delves into this uncharted territory. The study employs a rigorous difference-in-differences (DID) model to examine the influence of newly established urban parks on commercial gentrification in Shanghai in 2019, covering an extensive area of 6340.5 km2. The findings reveal a significant increase in gentrification-related businesses, particularly exotic eateries and coffee/tea beverage shops, in the vicinity of urban parks. This growth underscores the need to consider public health implications in urban design due to potential changes in food environments. Moreover, the research highlights diverse spillover effects, emphasizing that parks closer to city centers have a more substantial impact on commercial gentrification than those farther away. Community parks with extensive grounds and well-designed amenities also exhibit higher service concentrations, underlining the importance of meticulous urban planning to ensure equitable access to green spaces. The theoretical implications of this study challenge traditional notions of urban parks’ exclusively positive effects and call for a more nuanced approach in urban planning, considering potential unintended consequences like commercial gentrification. This research enriches academic discourse on the evolving dynamics of urban spaces. Furthermore, the policy implications stress the importance of comprehensive urban planning strategies, emphasizing the evaluation of park dimensions, placement, and amenities to maximize benefits while minimizing negative impacts. The study advocates for health-focused initiatives in park planning and the implementation of laws to ensure that expanded green spaces benefit all socio-economic groups, promoting socio-economic diversity while fostering dynamic, vibrant communities. This research offers valuable insights that extend beyond commercial gentrification, contributing to informed decision-making in urban green policy and sustainable development in China’s evolving urban landscape.