A "Parklet" on South Dean Street in Englewood, NJ

A "Parklet" on South Dean Street in Englewood, NJ

I propose a Parklet on South Dean Street in close to Patisserie Florentine.  This idea evolved from my vision for a more Bicycle and Pedestrian friendly NJ.

Question: What will the Parklet look like?

Answer: I have made a drawing to help envision it.  However I am flexible.

Question: What is your motivation?  Why do you want a Parklet in Englewood?  

Answer: Taking inspiration from NYC and Cambridge, MA...  I found that Parklets invite communities out to talk, shop, and enjoy.  It is similar to a mini boardwalk or street fair.  The way I see it...  until I move to Southern California...  NJ could use some friendlier spaces to gather. The allure of the Mall ended for me back in 8th grade.  I think I am not alone in saying that parks, bike lanes, and outdoor seating makes for a more inviting downtown.

Question: Is there a financial benefit to a business supporting a Parklet?

Answer: YES!  The evidence shows that Parklets increase business.  Streetfilms reported that the "owners of Mojo [Bicycle Cafe] say business is up 30% and they have had to hire more staff".  That interview is from a business owner in California reflecting on the increase in shoppers to their store after installing a Parklet.  The increase in shoppers from Parklets is consistent across the country.

Follow this link to my previous blog post with more evidence (and Videos!)
http://englewoodnjbikewalk.blogspot.com/2014/08/what-is-parklet.html

Question: Is there community support?

Answer: Yes. In July, I road up to "The Market" on 9W. There I met the publisher of Cyclists International. Jennifer Benepe. I talked with her about safer biking in Englewood. Jen was nice enough to write an article about my Parklet initiative. Here is part of an article written about the Parklet idea on her Bicyclist news source, Cyclists International.

New Voice in Englewood, NJ Seeks Safer Streets

by Jennifer Benepe • July 5, 2014 • 

Grosinger brought up the original idea about the “Parklet” to Tomer Zilkha, the owner of the French bakery, Patisserie Florentine. Zilkha started talking to Grosinger after he noticed that the cyclist had drawn a bicycle in his guest book.

“We decided to take a few short bike rides that turned into a weekly ride on Route 9W,” said Grosinger. “Since becoming friends I presented the Parklet idea to him with drawings, and he is really enthusiastic about putting one in front of his shop.”

Zilkha’s bakery happens to be across the street from Gavi Epstein’s new eBay bicycle store. “Gabby is an avid bicycle racer and is very supportive of participating in our first Englewood Parklet,” said Grosinger.

Question: When do you plan to have the Parklet?

Answer: As a test run, I propose having a one day Parklet (also know as "Park(ing) Day") either 9/13 or 9/19.  National Park(ing) Day is 9/19.

Question: How do I support your efforts to add a Parklet to Englewood, NJ?

Answer: If you send me an email of support I can print that out and show this at a town meeting.  Or, feel free to email the town directly.  Just CC me so I have a copy.  You can also talk to Tomer at his store and give him your support.

Question: How do I get updates on the Parklet progress?

Answer: If you join my Bicycle Lane Google + group, you will get email updates.  Here is the link:

https://plus.google.com/communities/115751143296759137923

Question: How do I get in touch with you?

Answer: Feel free to Call or email me:

917-379-8400
ron.grosinger@gmail.com