SDOT is now accepting applications to turn on-street parking spaces into pop-up parks and street improvements for its PARK(ing) Day Plus+ event in September. Each year, residents, businesses and organizations participate in the international PARK(ing) Day program to engage their communities in rethinking how streets can be used.
Applications to create a PARK(ing) Day Plus+ installation are due by August 5. The short, free application can be found on SDOT’s website. It requires a site plan, location description, and documentation of neighbor notification. Completed applications or questions can be emailed to David.Burgesser@seattle.gov.
This year, SDOT is partnering with the Department of Neighborhoods to offer funding to PARK(ing) Day Plus+ participants through the Small Sparks grant program. Small Sparks grants (up to $1,000) can be used for projects and events that help build stronger and healthier communities. Grant applications must be submitted by August 5. Interested applicants can contact NMFund@seattle.gov or call (206) 233-0093.
Seattle has participated in PARK(ing) Day since 2007, and based on its success, SDOT is expanding the event into PARK(ing) Day Plus+ this year. It will now span two days: Friday, September 16 and Saturday, September 17. In addition, applicants are encouraged test out temporary street improvements, such as bike lanes and sidewalks, as well as the pop-up parks that have been the focus of the event in the past.
The original PARK(ing) Day started in 2005 by San Francisco design firm Rebar and has become an international event celebrated in over 160 cities. The event intends to raise awareness about the importance of creating a walkable, livable, and healthy city.
More information about PARK(ing) Day Plus+, including application examples and guidelines, can be found on SDOT’s website. We’ve also included a photo gallery of past PARK(ing) Day installations, so take a peek and get inspired!