History has shown that Keney and Elizabeth Parks have evolved to become vastly different from one another. In one area of the city, Elizabeth Park reflects the aspects of a city that local governments seek to highlight. Elizabeth park, and the area around it, is clean, full of life, and bustling with local business. But, Elizabeth park is not much more than a piece of art, its meant to be gazed upon and enjoyed. This park is a prime example of why parks get deemed as “frivolous” wastes of city taxes, and why parks get blamed for hiding negative aspects of a city. The park is mean for nothing more besides showing outsiders what Hartford looks like, in a very small area. Since outside visitors and tourists frequent Elizabeth Park, they see the parts of the city that are meant to be seen, without ever seeing what actual life in the city is like.
Over at Keney Park, life is not all flowers and roses. In their small section of the park, Keney Park Sustainability is an example of what a true sustainable city could look like. From growing vegetables and mushrooms, to repurposing and reusing old materials, Keney Park Sustainability is also challenging the common beliefs about parks. Instead of being frivolous, KPS is productive, and even serves the local community.