By Lindsay Forrest, DVI Intern
When I first heard the term “parklet” in a meeting, I was just as confused as you might be. What are these “parklets”? How can a pavement project enhance Jacksonville? How do they create cultural vibrancy in urban areas?
By definition, a parklet is an extension of the sidewalk – usually installed into parking lanes to make use of several parking spaces for a proposed project. In urban cities, we are continually seeing the introduction of parklets to increase metropolitan appeal, provide space, offer amenities and encourage outdoor activities. The purpose of these modern parks is to gather people for a place to sit, rest, eat, drink and enjoy themselves outside.
The first public parklet was created in San Francisco in 2010 and since then, many other cities including Phoenix, Philadelphia, Oakland, San Jose, Dallas and Seattle have created their own versions of these sidewalk parks. They typically have umbrellas, benches, tables, chairs and bike racks characterized by greenery, murals and innovative design. Not only do parklets offer amenities to local citizens, they also increase the vibrancy of the community and urban culture in a downtown atmosphere.
Benefits of parklets include:
- Supporting local businesses
- Encourage the use of sustainable transportation
- Influence the atmosphere and ambiance
- Offer a place for friends and families to gather
- Enhance pedestrian safety and standards
- Offer a place to eat, drink, read, study, and enjoy the environment
Check out the Pavement to Parks project created by San Francisco’s city agencies to get a better understanding of what they truly are. The city of San Francisco is the ultimate trailblazer in these modern, outdoor spaces. They recently installed a parklet outside of the Museum of Craft and Design. With many businesses and residences, the city has invested in creating a vibrant commercial district along the 3rd street corridor. This parklet utilizes metal and stout to provide benches that span the length of the parklet. Here are some examples:
MUSUEM OF CRAFT AND DESIGN
Location: 2659 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Installed: October 2015
Designed by: Bionic Landscape Architecture
Hosted by: Museum of Craft and Design
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REVEILLE COFFEE PARKLET
Location: 200 Columbus Ave St, San Francisco, CA 94133 show map
Installed: April 2014
Designed by: Cameron Helland, Sagan Piechota Architecture
Hosted by: Reveille Coffee Co
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COLUMBUS AVENUE PARKLET
Location: 423 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133 show map
Installed: October 2010
Designed by: Rebar Group
Hosted by: Caffe Greco
Looking for a way to support a local parklet program in #DTJax? Attend our Urban Oasis Gala on Saturday March 19, at 100 N. Laura. Celebrate #DTJax with cocktails, dining and dancing with live music from the Chris Thomas Band! Safari and khaki attire is highly encouraged. Purchase tickets here for $150 per person or learn more about sponsorships here. All proceeds from the Downtown Gala will benefit a local parklet program in #DTJax.
