On September 21, our Syracuse team participated in National PARK(ing) Day, an annual event that encourages community members, students and designers to transform metered parking spaces into temporary parklets for the day.
Our parklet included a wood pavilion built out of salvaged bleacher wood from West Genesee School District’s High School Gym. The beautiful structure, constructed by Wood Etc., included benches, a wood floor, plants, and tables for any and all passers-by to enjoy. From 11 AM to 8 PM, people were able to have coffee, eat lunch, and even enjoy a social hour on their way out of work, all while hanging out on a downtown parking spot.
Inspired by a national movement based in San Francisco, this event is meant to raise awareness regarding the impact of public park space and the benefits it provides to the urban environment. These include improved water management, reduced heat island effects and a pedestrian space with opportunities for community enjoyment. Parking spots are barricaded to keep participants safe from moving traffic.
In urban areas around the world, inexpensive curbside parking results in increased traffic, wasted fuel and more pollution. These conditions are no longer sustainable and don’t promote a healthy, vibrant urban environment. The purpose is to get community members to rethink the way streets are used and reimagine the possibilities of the urban landscape.