City of Oakland California

The City of Oakland has initiated a pilot program to establish temporary Parklets in up to eight eligible locations citywide. 

A Parklet is the temporary use of space in the dedicated public right-of-way (parking spaces, unused bus stops, and other types of vehicular and non-vehicular zones) for public uses such as seating or bicycle racks. The Parklets are publicly accessible space for the enjoyment and use of all Oakland citizens, which are privately constructed and maintained. It is envisioned that the Parklets will be located in areas with heavy pedestrian activity, as additional seating areas for retail patrons, and also in areas where there is a desire to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment.

Parklets can feature:

• Tables and chairs for public use
• Benches
• Planters and landscaping features
• Bicycle parking

For images of existing Parklets, please see the San Francisco Pavement to Parks website: http://sfpavementtoparks.sfplanning.org/

Business Improvement Districts, storefront business owners, non-profits and community-based organizations may apply for a permit to install a Parklet during the Pilot Program. Other applicants may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

On September 26, the City launched the Parklet Pilot Program and issued a Notice of Parklet Availability. Up to eight parklets will be selected for this Pilot Program from all complete submissions received by the November 7th deadline. For complete details, please see the Notice and handout. 

Click here to view the Notice of Parklet Availability   
Información sobre el Programa de Parklets de Oakland
          
   

Click here to view the Pilot Program handout 
Folleto sobre el Programa de Parklets de Oakland

A pilot program will allow us to work out what is best for Oakland. There will be “before” and “after” surveys at the Parklet locations to gather data about the effects of Parklets. Parklet sponsors will be asked to participate in the survey.

Maintenance
If your project is selected, you will be required to provide daily maintenance of the Parklet. You will be required to sign a maintenance agreement with the City of Oakland, to keep all plants in good health, and to keep the Parklet free of debris and grime. The surface must be maintained adequately. Unsecured furniture is not permitted after business hours. Parklet permit holders will be required to coordinate with the Oakland street sweeping program.

Liability
Applicants must provide evidence of liability insurance for a minimum coverage of $1,000,000, naming the City of Oakland as additional insured. The insurance coverage must be in force for the duration of the permit. Most businesses already carry this insurance. Please check with your provider.

Suitable Location

• Parklet site is at least one parking spot in from a corner.
• Proposed location has a posted speed limit of 25mph or less.
• The proposed street has parking lanes and minimal slope.

Community Support

At a minimum, we ask that you demonstrate support from your immediate neighbors and any relevant community or merchant group(s).

Clear and Well-Thought Out Design

• Parklet contributes to the beauty and character of the neighborhood.
• Material can easily be maintained, installed, and removed if necessary.
• Design meets all guidelines, including those on this flyer and any specific requirements contained in the RFP.

Maintenance

We ask that you submit evidence that the Parklet will be well maintained.