City’s first parklet is slated for Brand Boulevard, across from Alex Theatre

Though Glendale’s first parklet has overcome a funding snag, officials still don’t know exactly when they will begin construction on the mini-pedestrian space in downtown.

The parklet, which is set to take over nearly four parking spaces in the 200 block of North Brand Boulevard, roughly across the street from the Alex Theatre, was supposed to be constructed in July, but a technical difficulty blocked a $20,000 grant for the project from entering the city’s coffers.

But on Tuesday, the City Council unanimously approved appropriating the money, which has since been unlocked by Keep America Beautiful, a nonprofit organization which works to improve public spaces. So far, Glendale has received $18,000 of the grant award. The remaining funds will come when the project is complete, according to a city report.

Philippe Eskandar, a program specialist in the city’s Community Development Department, said officials have yet to hammer out a construction schedule, although they hope to complete the 800-square-foot project, which will include open space, seating areas and drought-tolerant plants, by the end of the year.

Parklets, which have been popping up in several cities in California, including Los Angeles and San Francisco, aim to give people a place to gather and relax in an area that lacks open space. The proposed Glendale parklet is set to be in place for one year. If it is successful, officials will consider keeping it in place as well as devising a plan to install more parklets.

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