Mighty-O Launches the first parklet of 2017 in Ballard

Seattle’s ninth parklet opened outside of Mighty-O Donuts (1555 NW Market St,) to much fanfare on March 7.

Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) joined parklet host Mighty-O Donuts and neighborhood residents to celebrate the opening of this new public space at 17th Ave NW and NW Market St in Ballard.

“Seattle’s Parklet Program has been a great success since its launch in early 2013,” stated Scott Kubly, SDOT director. “People all over the city enjoy having these unique neighborhood gathering spaces.”

The Mighty-O parklet is designed around a reused boat hull, and was celebrated with origami boat-making, boat races, and plenty of donuts. Hosted by Friends of Mighty-O Parklet, a local group of neighborhood volunteers, the parklet was funded by private donations and a Seattle Department of Neighborhoods grant.

“Mighty-O set sail a few years ago with an idea to participate in this community project, the 1940’s era boat was inspired by our cities maritime past,” said Megan Helmer, Mighty-O co-owner. “We are grateful to SDOT, Department of Neighborhoods, community donations, and the volunteers who came together to make this project possible.”

Parklets help activate city streets, provide seating and community gathering spaces, and support local businesses. They can also take the form of a streatery which is a parklet that is a sidewalk café during business hours. Parklets and streateries are small-scale public spaces built adjacent to sidewalks within on-street parking spots. They encourage walking and biking by providing interesting places for sitting or talking with neighbors.

Parklet and streatery design, permitting, construction, and maintenance costs are funded by the parklet or streatery host. The design of each parklet or streatery reflects the character of the surrounding neighborhood, and complies with City safety and mobility standards.

If you are interested in being a parklet or streatery host can get more information online, e-mail parklets@seattle.gov, or call (206) 684-5267.