By Janet McMahon
Rapid development—often overdevelopment—is everywhere all the time. Terms like “open space” or “green space” are heard frequently. But what do they really mean, and why are they so vital?
Open or green space broadly refers to undeveloped land or water that remains free from significant building. These areas may include natural habitats, public parks, or privately owned parcels left undeveloped. They can be preserved for many purposes: protecting ecosystems, preserving biodiversity, offering recreational opportunities, or supporting agriculture.
Here in Greenwich, our open spaces provide a welcome refuge for both people and wildlife. According to the 2022 Town of Greenwich Open Space Plan, the town has just 3,981 acres of dedicated open space—out of a total of 30,592 a