The Downtown Parklet Project is relocating this year, moving from South Fourth Street to Gay Street for a two-month stint that will convert a single on-street metered parking spot into a multi-function pedestrian space to compliment area businesses and activities.
In addition to the relocation, the project is being revamped a bit from its previous iteration, taking a few lessons learned in the process.
“We’ve been brainstorming with our team and figuring out ways to simplify the space,” explained Transit Columbus Board Member and project organizer Jess Mathews. “We want people being able to look out and look in from both sides — so it will show people interacting in multiple ways.”
While the designs are still preliminary and subject to change, Mathews said that standing-height table space and movable seating are new components that the group is considering. The project has also received some funding from the Ohio Arts Council to include local artwork inside the Parklet for visitors to view.
“Additionally, the P and K letters in the PARKT sign will contain living wall components, while the A, R and T will feature lighting elements,” said Mathews. “So at night, it will give off this soft illumination of the word ART.”
Mathews added that while the response to the Parklet project on Fourth Street was very positive, she’s very interested in seeing how well the project thrives on Gay Street — not only because of the slower automobile traffic speeds and increase in pedestrian activity, but also because it could lead to an expansion of the concept in the future.
“You’ve got City Hall and the Department of Development down the street, so we’re excited to have a wide variety of eyes in terms of leadership and employees,” she said. “This is a cool concept, so let’s see if it can work in other places. The whole point is to take a look at our public spaces and see how we can more efficiently use them.”
The Parklet is expected to be completed and open to the public sometime in May.
Parklet design by Darin Hadinger.
