Parklets

A parklet is a small, often temporary, urban public space that is created by taking over one or more parking spaces. Typically installed on a street, parklets repurpose on-street parking for public use, transforming them into seating areas, green spaces, or extensions of adjacent businesses. They are generally constructed from durable materials and can include elements such as benches, planters, tables, and art installations.

The concept of parklets originated in San Francisco in 2005 as part of the "Park(ing) Day" event, a global activist event where people temporarily convert parking spaces into public parks and other public spaces. Since then, the idea has spread to cities worldwide, adopted by municipal governments and community groups. Parklets aim to enhance urban livability by providing much-needed public space, encouraging pedestrian activity, and supporting local businesses. They can help to mitigate the impacts of car dominance in urban environments, offering a more human-centered approach to street design.

Implementation varies by city, with some cities having formal programs for parklet approval and maintenance, while others allow for more ad-hoc or temporary installations. Common goals of parklet programs include increasing green space, improving street aesthetics, providing places for people to rest and socialize, and supporting the local economy by attracting foot traffic. They represent a flexible and often cost-effective way to add public amenities to busy urban areas.