Park(ing) Day
What is PARK(ing) Day?
PARK(ing) Day is an annual opensource global event where residents, artists and activists collaborate to temporarily transform metered parking spaces into “PARK(ing)” spaces: temporary public places. The project began in 2005 when Rebar, a San Francisco art and design studio, converted a single metered parking space into a temporary public park in downtown San Francisco. Since 2005, PARK(ing) Day has evolved into a global movement, with organizations and individuals (operating independently of Rebar but following an established set of guidelines) creating new forms of temporary public space in urban contexts around the world. The mission of PARK(ing) Day is to call attention to the need for more urban open space, to generate critical debate around how public space is created and allocated, and to improve the quality of urban human habitat … at least until the meter runs out!
In celebration of PARK(ing) Day 2023, 80/20 Foundation, AIA San Antonio, ASLA Texas and Centro invite you to join us in activation of Historic Houston Street on Friday, September 15th between 10 am and 4 pm.
This year’s theme is Pollinators – Birds, bats, bees, butterflies, and other insects need our help more than ever. Infuse the theme in activations by showcasing how design, activism, and play create healthy places for important pollinators in our community. Examples include: Educational materials about a pollinator in our community that is at risk, Show native plants the pollinator relies on, or create an interactive game or demonstration that teaches how to design/support habitats.
A sponsor is a community group, organization, small business, or activator that “sponsors” a metered parking spot or streetscape and is responsible for creating/activating a small park in the space.
APPLY TO BE A SPACE SPONSOR
Sponsors are responsible for:
Sticking to the rough plan outlined in the application,to utilze the space, and to “people‐power” the space from 10AM‐4PM on Friday,September 15th. Spots should have at least partial shade, an activity, and places for people to sit down.
Setting up the space by 10AM (load‐instarts at 8am) and cleaning up no later than 6PM (spaces officially close to the public at 4pm) and ensuring the space and streetscape are in the same condition as when when they arrived.
Abiding by additional restrictions set forth within the application.
Having representation at mandatory meetings outlined in the application.
Creating inspriing and authentic experiences, activities and education around PARKing Day and/or Pollinator theme.
We will provide:
All traffic‐related permits and traffic control barriers for use of the parking or street space.
Promotion of event through press releases,social media and community engagement.
Lead in and day of logistics support.
VENDING & VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
In addition to parklet and streetscape sponsors, we are also looking for small businesses, mobile vendors, and volunteers to help us in delivering a one of a kind PARKing Day celebration in the heart of our city.
Volunteers are needed for set up, event, and tear down 2 hour shifts between 8:30 am and 5:30 pm. In appreciate of your service, volunteers will receive a complimentary commemorative t-shirt.
To learn more about opportunities available, please email lburt@centrosa.org
