EAST WHITELAND — Next Friday, businesses in Coatesville, West Chester and Phoenixville will commandeer parking spaces and transform them into pop-up themed parks to celebrate International Park(ing) Day.
Celebrated worldwide and across the United States since 2005, Park(ing) Day is a day to raise awareness for more open space in towns.
The Transportation Management Association of Chester County (TMACC), a local organization advocating for the improvement of transportation infrastructure and the inclusion of alternative transportation options, thinks Park(ing) Day is a great way to highlight what a parking space could be used for if less cars were in town.
“What if people used public transportation more or carpooled?” asked TMACC Executive Director, Tim Phelps, “If more people used these amenities we could use parking spaces for something different, a sound place for people to enjoy. Park(ing) Day is a way to help towns rethink their use of space and start integrating more alternative forms of transportation into their community.”
Caroyln Comitta, Vice President and CFO of Thomas Comitta Associates and Mayor of West Chester, says she is dedicated to the cause and is excited to partner with the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce on their spot. “Parking Day is a fun way to raise awareness and celebrate our urban centers while underscoring the key role green spaces play in the vibrancy and health of our communities. West Chester is delighted to support this exciting Day.” Said Comitta.
Nicole Catanese and David Long, owners of Fuel City Café, are excited to participate in the event and are always looking for ways to give back to the community. “Since we opened our doors, we’ve had tremendous support from the community.” Said Catanese, “We’re excited to partner with TMACC to give the people of Coatesville a park to relax in for the day.”
Public wishing to take advantage of the park(ing) spaces can do so at the following locations at the times below:
West Chester:
NW Corner of Walnut and Gay Street West Chester, 19380
9 AM to 4 PM
The Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce will partner with The Fence Authority, Kati Mac Florist, Brandywine Ace Pet and Farm, JHL Lawn and Landscape, Kildare’s Irish Pub and Tom Comitta and Associates to create a fun picnic spot/lemonade stand for anyone to enjoy.
Coatesville:
Out front of Fuel City Café 247 Lincoln Hwy E Coatesville, 19320
9 AM to 4 PM
The Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce will partner with Fuel City Café, Coatesville 2nd Century Alliance and the Coatesville Area Public Library to create a fun Day at the Beach. Grab a book donated by the Coatesville Area Public Library, stick your feet in the sand and relax in a chair under the sun.
Phoenixville:
Out front of KMS Design Group, LLC 243 Bridge St
Phoenixville, 19460
2 PM to 8 PM
KMS Design Group, LLC is partnering with Meliora Design to create an interactive public park for all ages to discuss storm water management and land planning. They will have fun games, balloon animals, places to relax, and a water fountain.
