On October 2, 2017 the Spokane City Council approved the Parklet project and allowing for the placement of parklets where appropriate during the warmer months. This ordinance replaces the previous pilot programs of 2016 and 2017. If you wish to apply for the placement of a parklet, see the following documents:
Parklets are temporary sidewalk extensions that provide more space and amenities for people using the street by converting a parking space or loading zone to public use. Creatively designed and executed, parklets provide seating areas and public space, often include greenery, and commonly provide a unique visual impact that activates a street and increases the public use. You may have seen last year’s pilot program that installed a parklet on West Main Ave downtown and a second parklet on West 1st Ave. A similar program this year could install up to three parklets.
Parklets and streateries have been implemented with success in multiple municipalities; increasing the vibrancy of the public realm, generating pedestrian activity, and activating new uses for streets.
Streateries are similar in design and nature to parklets. However, rather than operating as public space all day long, streateries belong to an adjacent restaurant or café during operating hours; functioning as a "off-sidewalk café" that can extend off the sidewalk into the parking lane. When the restaurant or café is closed, the streatery operates as a typical parklet. As with Parklets, the clear sidewalk must be maintained and other safety concerns must be addressed.
For more information on parklets and streateries, please see our Frequently Asked Questions.
Tami Palmquist, AICP, CFM
Principal Planner
509.625.6157
tpalmquist@spokanecity.org
