Yes, Sunbug, I think you’re right; insisting on the disconnect creates the disconnect.
As for parks, I think that the number and placement, or location, is one way that citizens can gage how the city cares for them.
The Central Park is, I think, the best example, and it gets more beautiful every year. I love it. It’s not accidental that it’s surrounded by art museums, including the Natural History Museum. I don’t think I go too far when I say Manhattan is simply not a sustainable proposition without Central Park.
Thanks for commenting, Sunbug!