Calgary,
20
September
2019
|
12:00
America/Denver

Re-imagining the public realm on PARK(ing) Day 2019

Today, Calgary is joining other cities around the world transforming curbside parking stalls into creative temporary public spaces as part of PARK(ing) Day.

Organized by The City of Calgary and the Alberta Association of Landscape Architects, this year’s event takes place along Kensington Road N.W. from noon to 6 p.m. Artists, designers and citizens have cleverly re-envisioned 19 stalls into areas of relaxation, networking and entertainment, showcasing the creative ways the public realm could be re-imagined. This year's installations include a 1970s rumpus room, an Alice in Dumpsterland tea party, and an oversized paint-by-number palate for participants to colour.

“As cities become more crowded, the value we place upon small spaces is increasing,” said Kate Zago, planner with The City of Calgary. “PARK(ing) Day is a great opportunity for Calgarians to think about how we use our public spaces, big and small, and how community members can transform their neighbourhoods in quick and easy ways.”

PARK(ing) Day began in 2005 when a single metered parking space was changed into a temporary park in San Francisco. Now, it is celebrated across the globe on the third Friday of September. It is known as a non-commercial event, intended to promote creativity, civic engagement, critical thinking, unscripted social interactions, generosity, and play.

New this year are two $1,000 grants awarded by Alberta Association of Landscape Architects. We are pleased to announce the grant winners, chosen by jury selection, were presented last week. Special congratulations to Andrew Chell for Whale Watch and Raye Liu, Ji Yong Chyung, Jason Park and Judy Liu for Re-tire.

Awards for the most interactive, most creative, most colourful, judge’s choice, and people’s favourite will be also be presented.

Calgarians are invited to experience PARK(ing) Day and take in these active and lively converted temporary spaces.

For more information on PARK(ing) Day, please visit calgary.ca/parkingday.

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