Who was known for his planning of city parks, including Central Park?

Frederick Law Olmsted is recognized as a pioneering landscape architect, most notably for his role in the design and planning of Central Park in New York City. His vision for parks was rooted in the belief that such green spaces were essential for public wellbeing, allowing urban populations to escape the pressures of city life and connect with nature. Olmsted, often in partnership with Calvert Vaux, created landscapes that combined natural beauty with recreational areas, emphasizing the importance of public parks in urban planning.

His work extended beyond Central Park, as he was involved in various other park projects and landscapes across the United States, further cementing his influence on park design and urban green spaces. His approach integrated aesthetics with functionality, highlighting the therapeutic benefits of nature and its role in civic life. Thus, Olmsted's legacy continues to impact urban planning and landscape architecture today, making him the correct choice for the question regarding the planning of city parks.