Hello Chainlinkers--I am writing with my Alta Planning + Design hat on.

Would you like more of our public places (streets, alleys, plazas) to be used for playful activities and exercise? Do you think it should be easier to walk and bike to parks? Please share your thoughts on the Make Way for Play website and/or at our public meeting June 12 at the Garfield Park Conservatory, 5:30-6:30pm (doors open at 5). This link  will take you to a page where you can map out the problem areas in your community (whether difficult intersections or concerns about personal safety). There is also a quick survey. It would be great if you did one or both and spread the word. Thanks. More project info below. And for an inspiring video about Play Streets, see
http://www.streetfilms.org/a-car-free-street-grows-in-queens/

Welcome to Make Way for Play! The purpose of Make Way for Play is to identify ways to improve pedestrian, bicycle and transit access to Chicago’s parks and to creatively use the existing public way for active transportation and recreation opportunities. The project team is exploring strategies that range from improving crossings of busy roads around parks to creating temporary, protected play spaces on neighborhood streets and other public areas. The goal is to create opportunities for active transportation and recreation and to improve the health of all Chicagoans.

Tell us your thoughts on how to make it easier and safer to travel to Chicago’s parks, especially for pedestrians, cyclists and transit users. How can we maximize the potential of our public spaces – our sidewalks, streets, plazas – for play and physical activity? We hope you will use this website, including our mapping tool, to get involved and give us your ideas.