News
September 18, 2015PARK(ing) Day Coming to Albany on September 18
On Friday, September 18 parking spaces throughout Albany will be taken over and temporarily transformed for a variety of public uses. The event is part of PARK(ing) Day, an annual, worldwide event where artists, activists, and citizens independently, yet simultaneously, turn metered parking spots into “PARK(ing)” spaces—that is, temporary public parks and other spaces for people to enjoy.
The mission of PARK(ing) Day is to call attention to the need for urban open space, to generate critical debate around how public areas are created and allocated, and to improve the quality of urban human habitat…at least until the meter runs out!
In Albany, more than 20 parking spots will be converted into public spaces by 11 organizations and local businesses (see list and map on last page). The event will run from 11:00am-4:00pm and is cosponsored by Parks & Trails New York (PTNY), the City of Albany’s Department of Development and Planning, and Albany Center Gallery.
PTNY is taking over multiple parking spaces on Washington Avenue near the Capitol, converting them temporarily into a segment of the Erie Canalway Trail leading into a public campground complete with greenery, tent, camping chairs, camp stove, marshmallows and a game of corn hole. A protected bike lane, created by Albany Bicycle Coalition, will also connect to the spaces.
By creating a temporary refuge in the middle of the city, PTNY is reminding New Yorkers how important it is to have a place to relax, rejuvenate and recreate.
“Parks, trails and other open spaces are critical to the health and well-being of all New Yorkers in all communities,” said PTNY Executive Director Robin Dropkin. “PARK(ing) Day is an excellent way to remind ourselves of the importance of having natural areas that are accessible to everyone.”
“PARK(ing) Day is not just a fun event—it speaks of a great message regarding open space, and makes us think outside the box about how we can use it in our City,” said Mary Millus, Senior Planner with the Department of Development & Planning. “I also love the creative approach of this event. The participants put a lot of thought into transforming their parking spots—and I appreciate that. The Planning Department will be out in front of the Iron Gate Café at 182 Washington Avenue.”
“We are excited to be part of PARK(ing) Day again this year,” said Tony Iadicicco, Director of Albany Center Gallery. “Bringing art into public spaces has been part of our ongoing efforts to educate and promote local and regional artists. With PARK(ing) Day, taking it to the streets, it really creates a focus on how spaces and places can be used in unique ways”
See www.ptny.org for a map of all the PARK(ing) Day spaces in the City of Albany. Learn more about PARK(ing) Day at www.parkingday.org.
