Transforming Parking Spots Into Parks In Montgomery County

With a little creativity, even the smallest of spaces can be transformed.

That’s what’s happening on the annual (PARK)ing Day in Norristown, when ordinary parking spots will be transformed into a public space.

The event will take place on September 18 on Main Street between Swede Street and DeKalb Pike from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The day is part of a global initiative challenging citizens to reevaluate the way they see public spaces and how they can be utilized.i

In Norristown, five parking spots will be transformed by the following organizations:

• Municipality of Norristown
• Montgomery County Planning Commission (MCPC)
• Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
• Greater Valley Forge Transportation Management Association (GVF)

Norristown’s space will feature the Inside Out Arts program, which brings internationally famous replicas of art from the Philadelphia Museum of Art to neighborhoods around the area.

GVF will be transforming a parking spot into a walking and biking trail. Learn how your commute affects the environment, economy, and your health.

The DEP’s spot will focus on the different impacts on local streams and rivers. Stop by to see just how delicate our waters can be and what you can do to protect them.

Finally, the MCPC will be transforming a parking spot into a parklet where people can hang out and play lawn games. Learn about how the county preserves farmland, receive a list of farm markets, and check out all of the free recycling events offered throughout the year.

MCPC will also be creating a space that focuses on trails, parks, and walkable communities. Learn all about the county’s popular parks and trails and efforts to make the county more walkable for everyone through a new county initiative called Walk Montco.