Using Mobility Data to Evaluate Changes in Outdoor Recreational Activity Across Major COVID-19 Variants

Abstract

This study examines visitor behavior at nature parks in Miami and Atlanta, focusing on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on visitation patterns over several months. The research considers various pandemic-related variants and explores how the pandemic has affected park utilization in different neighborhoods, particularly concerning income disparities. Utilizing monthly park visitation data from 2020 to 2022, compared with the pre-pandemic years 2018-2019, alongside household median income data from Social Explorer, the study reveals significant differences in park visitation across COVID-19 variants and between the two cities. Preliminary findings highlight varying effects of different virus strains on park visitation patterns, with substantial variations within each city. Despite the pandemic, average park visitation remains relatively stable, offering valuable insights for policymakers and park managers grappling with the evolving dynamics of park visits amid a global health crisis.