Creating inclusive public space does not stop with design. The details of programming and events – who an event features, how it is promoted, when it takes place, and how it is celebrated – all contribute to creating an audience that feels invited and welcome.
Learn how Jackson Street Pier, in operation since 1900 as a parking lot and waiting area for incoming ferries, was transformed in 2019 into Sandusky, Ohio’s premier open space. Its design brings the community together outdoors to enjoy live music, movies, speakers, vendors, and more. This flexible space invites people throughout the day to enjoy a walk, watch the sunset, fish, or throw a picnic.
Events and programs produced by the city and local partners in 2021 and 2022 included a Juneteenth festival and fireworks display; a free concert series including Grammy-award winning Sugarhill Gang and local star Crystal Bowersox, a finalist on The Voice; Winterfest; ArtWalks; the Taste of Ohio Wine Festival; Ohio Bike Week; a Movies by the Bay free movie series; and many more.
Use the Jackson Street Pier story to gather inspiration for the collaboration and programming you are working toward in your transformational public spaces.
NPC Peer Reviewers assigned this presentation a learning level of Intermediate. For more on learning-level descriptions, visit our General Information Page.
Learning Objectives:
Discuss the value of transforming public spaces to incentivize economic development.
Apply best practices for programming and promoting public space and recreation.
Identify key assets of a public space and preserve and build upon them during redesign and transformation.
