PARK(ing) Day is an annual, global event where artists, activists and citizens independently and simultaneously transform metered parking spots into temporary public parks. Since 2005, PARK(ing) Day has allowed the re-imagination of the creative potential city streets have.

The initiative was brought to Syracuse four years ago by folks working with the 40 Below Public Arts Task Force (PATF), who set up a mini park complete with a bench and bocci court. This year, Syracuse University’s COLAB, an interdisciplinary initiative that brings students and community together, is working with the PATF and the Connective Corridor to stage 20 PARK(ing) spaces around the city.

On September 17, parking spots will be transformed into public art and relaxation nooks along Marshall and E. Genesee Streets and in Columbus Circle and Armory Square. True to the name, “a lot of the spaces are themed around public parks because we want to raise awareness about how much space we take up for parking in our city. People want spaces where they can meet, spend time, put up art, play football – places where they can be together,” shared a COLAB staff member.

Briana Kohlbrenner, Co-Chair of the 40 Below Public Arts Task Force, admires that the end-product is left up to the individuals involved, rather than the city. “It’s a way to transform pavement into a new environment, and a way to question how we live in an urban space.” With spaces as diverse as those involved, PARK(ing) Day is sure to do just this!

PARK(ing) Day is open to any organization or individual interested in promoting creativity, civic engagement, critical thinking, unscripted social interactions, and/or play. To reserve your spot, contact Carlota Deseda-Coon by September 7 at chdeseda@syr.edu or 315-443-1476. For more information, visit the parking day website or the COLAB website