Open Street + Parklet Ideas
Advocates, we've learned something important during this pandemic: dedicated outdoor space is vital for people to move, recreate and patronize businesses safely and at a proper distance. The City of Charleston's first open street pilot project on South Market between State and Church Streets has been very successful, and we want to encourage the City to experiment with more opportunities, particularly in diverse areas that welcome and serve a variety of people and uses. Additionally, the City's first private parklet has opened at Babas on Cannon, and has been a great example of what happens when you unlock public space for people to utilize. We would love to see public parklets be available to citizens as well.
What's the difference between an open street and parklet?
• Open street: temporary closure of an entire street block (or blocks) to cars for the free movement of non-motorized uses.
• Parklet: a sidewalk extension — typically installed in on-street parking spots — that provides more space and amenities for people using the street.
We want to hear your suggestions on locations for these pilot projects! Please enter one suggestion per submission.