Transforming Parking Spots Into Parks In Norristown

NORRISTOWN, PA -- Montgomery County is helping to host a unique event to raise awareness for public space in several local municipalities, including Norristown.

During Parking Day, citizens take a parking space in town and turn it into a temporary mini public park. The day is part of a global initiative challenging citizens to reevaluate the way they see public spaces and how they can be utilized.

In Norristown, four spaces will be transformed in front of the Montgomery County Courthouse on Swede Street from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• The municipality of Norristown will be in charge of one space, and will "bring the beach" to the seashore-themed area.
• The Montgomery County Health Department will have a space to emphasize the connection between a healthy environment and healthy living. In a press release, the county said that visitors can see alternative planting methods, learn ways to stay healthy by enjoying the outdoors, and make their own bicycle-powered smoothie.
• • The Montgomery County Planning Commission, meanwhile, will have two parking spaces. A focus will be on teaching attendees about the new Bike Montco plan, which organizers say will enhance bicycle mobility and safety in the county. Participants can also hear about a two-part multi-regional greenway and stewardship study taking place in a large area of the county. The study looks at natural resources to delineate greenway corridors that interconnect county, municipal, and privately preserved open spaces. The stewardship study involves stewardship assessments on 1,800 acres of municipal open space, the county said.

The public is invited to attend the free event.

Similar events are planned in Phoenixville, West Chester, Coatesville, Manayunk, and around Philadelphia.

Image courtesy Park(ing) Day Global Initiative.