During the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Lawrence started a Downtown Temporary Right-of-Way program, also known as the parklet program, as a way for businesses to continue generating revenue while functioning safely under public health orders. The current, temporary parklet program is set to expire on December 31, 2021.
The City is looking to better understand community perspectives on parklets and whether residents and businesses would like to see a long-term parklet program after the current one expires.
A long-term parklet program would look different than what is currently in place, as additional logistics would need to be considered with long-term effects. This includes fire code, safety regulations, right-of-way permits, historic design guidelines, equity among local businesses, parking and more.
Community members are invited to share their thoughts and opinions via our Lawrence Listens survey: lawrenceks.org/listens/surveys or by email at parklets@lawrenceks.org.
The City is also hosting three virtual meetings to provide the opportunity for community members to share their perspectives. The upcoming Zoom meetings will be at the following times, and people can find the meeting registration links on the website: lawrenceks.org/community-engagement/parklets.
- Tuesday, Oct. 5 at 7 a.m.
- Wednesday, Oct. 6 at Noon
- Thursday, Oct. 7 at 7 p.m.
More information is also available on the website: lawrenceks.org/community-engagement/parklets.
Contact: Porter Arneill, Director of Communications and Creative Resources, parneill@lawrenceks.org.