Town Accepting Applications for Parklets
June 12, 2020 | Just like it sounds, the term ‘parklet’ references their small stature. What is a Parklet? Parklets are local business takeovers of parking spaces that convert them into extra outdoor seating or dining areas, retail space or other creative flexible outdoor space (see images below). They can be built out like decks with benches and fencing, or flower boxes and bike racks, or they can be bare bones with tables and chairs. The simple variety is something the Town of Jackson is supporting businesses to test out this summer.
As of this week, the town is accepting applications for businesses to create parklets either using the public right of way or on private property. The process is similar to applying for other town permits but has been streamed line as a one stop shop application with a quick one week or less turnaround time. Applications are currently available on this page of the town’s website.
The idea for parklets in Jackson was sparked through the Economic Recovery Task Force as a way to encourage business activity in town while also reinforcing our community’s commitment to physical distancing to mitigate further spread of COVID-19. Hearing business owner’s interest after recent months of closure, town staff worked to create a low-barrier, low-cost process that is as flexible as possible to support local businesses while also helping to keep people dispersed.
Applicants will need to include site plan drawings that indicate potential perimeters, dimensions, and efforts to accommodate social distancing requirements. Defined perimeters are required to ensure there is a safe buffer from traffic for patrons, and that proposed parklets do not interfere with existing curbs, fire lanes, loading zones, bus stops, taxi zones, or handicap parking spaces. Businesses that create parklets can keep the various elements within them (café tables, chairs, bike racks, planters, signage, fencing, portable heaters, lighting, or benches) even during non-business hours or remove and store them each day.
The entire community should get ready for a more diverse array of options for outside eating, shopping, and gathering around town this summer, and businesses are encouraged to apply to create their very own parklet here: Parklet Application.
For questions about the application contact Carl Pelletier: cpelletier@jacksonwy.gov.
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