Yellowknife joins global Park(ing) Day
Global event transforms metered parking spaces into public spaces for a day
A group in Yellowknife transformed metered parking spots in the downtown core into public spaces Friday.
It was part of Park(ing) Day, a global event that was first created in 2005 by Rebar, an art and design studio in San Francisco. It transformed a parking space into a park with grass, a bench, a tree and a fence.
The idea was to call attention to the need for more open spaces in city centres.
"The planning strategies that have led to traffic congestion, pollution and poor health in cities everywhere do not reflect contemporary values, nor are they sustainable," said Rebar's Matthew Passmore, in a press release.
"Park(ing) Day raises these issues and demonstrates that even temporary projects can improve the character and quality of the city.”
The idea of a "public space" has transformed over the years, and now people are using the metered parking spaces to showcase art, hold political seminars and even hold free health clinics.
Repurposing urban spaces
Park(ing) Day took place between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. on 49th St. between Franklin Avenue and 49th Avenue.
The event was co-ordinated by l'Association Franco-Culturelle de Yellowknife, the Artist Run Community Centre and the City of Yellowknife.
“Park(ing) Day is a unique opportunity to both enhance the vibrancy of the downtown, while also promoting art and cultural initiatives in Yellowknife," said Mayor Mark Heyck in a news release.
So far, more than 160 cities in 35 countries have participated in the event around the world.