A volunteer-run non-profit that created a new parklet in Downtown Squamish say they have no ‘immediate plans’ for another parklet in town.
“We received funding for this one parklet and do not have immediate plans for another one,” said Constance Wylie, a member of the OurSquamish Placemaking Society.
The society is a volunteer-run community non-profit dedicated to enhancing Squamish’s public spaces for the inclusion and enjoyment of everyone.
The funding for the new downtown parklet was provided by the former Arts Select Committee in late 2019 as part of a functional public art piece.
The United Way of the Lower Mainland contributed additional funds to complete the project. The parklet was built by volunteers. Wylie said they were grateful for everyone who contributed their time and skills along the way.
“Parklets are an extension of the sidewalk that provide more public space for people to use and enjoy,” Wylie said.
“Parklets are a public amenity that have the benefits of fostering social connection, adding interest and vibrancy to the street, and supporting local businesses with increased foot traffic.”
Wylie said volunteers had converted an unused asphalt triangle and adjacent stall on the corner of Cleveland Ave. and Winnipeg St. into an inviting public space that has room to seat multiple groups who can also safely distance.
It is also accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
“We see the public benefit that this parklet provides to our downtown outweighing the cost of a single parking stall,” she said.
In light of the current pandemic, public spaces such as parklets have an increased value as they provide a safe space for people to spend outdoors.
“We have already had an overwhelmingly positive response to the new parklet and are excited to see it in use and being enjoyed by the community.”
To learn more about OurSquamish and ways to get involved, residents can visit them on Instagram @oursquamish and online at oursquamish.ca, or email them at oursquamish@gmail.com
—
A message from Gagandeep, Editor, The Squamish Reporter:
For close to 10 years, I have been running a truly ‘local, small and independent media’. With your encouragement I have been able to keep my brand of journalism alive in the age of corporate media and big tech.
Please support me with a subscription for a very small amount of $4.95 a month. I have put no paywall on my website, so your subscription is actually a much-needed support. Please subscribe HERE.
