Downtown Cranford Introduces a New Public Space

If you are wondering about that new seating area on Eastman Street, it’s a Parklet, a temporary public space for people to enjoy their coffee, lunch, a book or just take in the nearby businesses.
Popping up in downtowns small and large, Parklets are small open spaces that provide people with a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the business district.
“After speaking with the nearby business owners, one parking space on Eastman Street was chosen for our seasonal seating area,” said Downtown Director Kathleen Miller Prunty, “and then several generous sponsors stepped up to build the Parklet, purchase the furniture and plants.” Improving existing public spaces and creating new ones, as well as being more pedestrian-friendly are important elements of the 2017 Downtown Strategic Plan prepared by the Downtown Management Corporation (DMC).
Cranford’s Parklet became a reality thanks to Steve Needle of Needlepoint Homes who built the seating area. Cranford resident and local Realtor Barbara Zeckman and Cranford Area Happenings donated the tables and chairs. Several flower pots came from local realtor and resident Sharon Steele, 365 Cranford Westfield NJ. “Steve, Barbara and Sharon are strong supporters of the downtown and we really appreciate their generosity and enthusiasm for this project,” said Deputy Mayor Patrick Giblin.
The Parklet is part of an overall effort to make the downtown a more interesting and inviting place to visit, shop and dine. A brightly painted public piano at Eastman Plaza has been drawing lots of attention and the giant sidewalk games are a big hit with young and old. The piano was donated by the Lafferty Family and painted by Cranford High students.
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