I think you misunderstand the commie block. The entire greenspace is part of the property as well. See peter cooper village in nyc.

Things like Cooper village seems to be the exception where I live.

Those projects are common all over the eastern US at least. Western US made them more squat generally a couple stories, but about as much green space surrounding the property. Not often as many trees but the children play outside and leave bikes and toys across the property.