Parklet Shmarklet
We all know what it’s like to circle around Boston’s Newbury and Boylston streets on a Saturday afternoon in search of the ideal parking spot.
You try the "secret" spots near Mass Ave., and behind the Prudential Center. You race a black BMW down Dartmouth Street, only to be beaten for the ideal spot near the Copley entrance. The No. 9 bus could’ve made six trips between South Boston and Back Bay in the time you’ve taken to circle the city in search for the perfect space.
Of course, the kicker is that once you’ve struck gold and found a space – ah, no quarters! So it’s off to schmooze with the local Tedeschi’s clerk for some change. An hour later, you’re irritated and frustrated. But the car is safely parked on the street for two hours for a mere $2 – take that Copley Square Garage!
The Teller, of course, doesn’t know any of this from personal experience, since purchasing car is about as much of a reality as moving out of mom and dad’s basement someday – but we’ve seen the idiots circle around a time or two.
But clearly, the city’s on-street parking is slim pickings. So why would Boston city officials ever agree to participate in a pilot "parklet" project? For those not familiar with this concept, a parklet "temporarily converts on-street parking space to small patios that offer various uses for public enjoyment, encouraging foot traffic and providing new spaces for communities to connect."
Isn’t that what Stephanie’s On Newbury’s outdoor patio is for? Or what about Boston Common? Do people really want to grab lunch and dine in a converted parking space? Will the parklet come with protective gear for when the next Escalade insists on paralleling into that prime Arlington Street space?
According to a release obtained by The Teller, the city plans to deploy its first three to four parklets between now and next fall. If it’s successful, the idea will be expanded. The idea began in San Francisco and has since spread to New York City. Among other benefits, officials theorize the elimination of some parking will promote public transit.
Adding transportation options like Hubway bikes to the city’s transit arsenal is logical, taking away coveted parking spots is just crazy talk.
The only saving grace is the city urges those interested to visit www.boston.gov/procurement – where the parklet idea is nowhere to be found!
Let the parking wars continue.
