The number of parks throughout Philadelphia will increase dramatically on Friday, September 18, 2009, when activists, artists, architects, and other citizens transform metered parking spaces into temporary public parks.  Known as Park(ing) Day, this annual event re-imagines the possibilities of 170 square feet of public space.  The event celebrates parks and other public spaces in cities across the country, and raises awareness of the need for more pedestrian-friendly spaces in our urban areas.

This year, over 30 non-profit institutions, community development organizations, academic institutions, and private companies will create temporary parks for Park(ing) Day.  Parks will be created in Center City as well as in Manayunk, Southwest Philadelphia, Mount Airy, Northern Liberties, and University City.

Park(ing) Day was founded by Rebar, a San Francisco art and design studio, in 2005 to raise awareness of the need for green spaces in urban environments. Philadelphia celebrated Park(ing) Day for the first time in 2008 with over 25 installations for relaxing, cycling, creating art, education, and socializing.

Please check out the map of this year’s Park(ing) spaces and join us as we reclaim parking spots and transform them into engaging, people-friendly public spaces for one day!