What the author is saying and being near Central Park are two different things.

That author is emphasizing being immersed in local green space.   In my 3rd floor apartment complex in the exurb of Kent, there are many trees lining the grassy area between the buildings and the sidewalk.  I can look out at those trees or above them to a bit of the sky of Puget Sound.   On the other, interior, side, there are alternating courtyards and parking areas.   The courtyards are completely enclosed on four sides by the townhouse style buildings and have picnic tables and swings.   The amazing thing is this building is at the low end of rent and serves many working class families.  In fact, back when I lived in Seattle I searched for such a structure after reading the book "Co-Housing" and this one in Kent meets the design as close as possible.

An honest man is always in trouble. --Henry Fool