The visual environment of the New York coastal zone: User preferences and perceptions

Abstract

This study examines the opinions and feelings of coastal users along the New York coastal zone to determine if there are attitudinal and perceptional differences with regard to visual quality. The sample of 981 consisted of individuals from the Long Island coastal area and the Great Lakes coastal area. Little regional, attitudinal, and perceptional differences exist. A trend, however, is apparent in that behavior patterns center around preferences for familiar things, a cynical attitude toward public officials, and an avoidance of issues that may tend to overstimulate an already overloaded life style. The indication is that planning considerations on the part of public officials must be cognizant of the personal stance of individuals rather than on their overt actions.