Repurposing Roadways and Curbsides as Public Space
Conventional project development and construction timelines make it difficult for cities to realize transformational projects quickly. A growing number of cities is experimenting with an “interim” project delivery method that uses low-cost, flexible materials to realize the benefits of a project or public space in the near term, while funding for the full scale implementation accumulates. How can these interim design strategies, from parklets to public plazas to temporary sidewalk widenings, be used in the life of a capital project or as part of a citywide open space initiative? When are these strategies effective and how can they be used to enhance public space more quickly?