MIAMI – Downtown Miami is getting a parking spot makeover.
Martha Viciedo of Urban Impact Lab took Local 10 News reporter MJ Acosta through the concept of Park(ing) Day.
Ten different parking spots throughout downtown Miami will be transformed into mini-parks.
Some are concerned it will be inconvenient for commuters who need the spaces. Viciedo says they will only take up one parking spot per block and it won't affect traffic negatively as its meant to improve the city experience.
It's a concept that's popped up throughout the nation and overseas. This is the second year its happening in South Florida and local business owners say they're on board.
"It's nice having something like this to draw business and it's safer for pedestrians," says Lorry Wood, owner of Elwood Gastro Pub.
They also have support from the Miami Parking Authority and Miami-Dade Parks and Recreation. Even city leaders are taking notice.
"The city is doing many things to improve park space throughout the city and this is an example of what we can do actively as a community" says Miami Commissioner Keon Hardemon.
Right now it's a yearly event for south Florida but the goal is to make "parklets" a staple in the community.
Park(ing) day is Friday, Sept. 19 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For a full list and map of locations visit www.parkingdaymiami.com or www.urbanimpactlab.com.
Follow MJ Acosta on Twitter @ItsMjTV
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