Few cities are investing in public life like San Jose. From Viva Parks to Viva CalleSJ and MOMENT to sidewalk cafes, the city has become a quintessential and successful example of the “build it and they will come” mentality of public space activation. But providing unique opportunities for engagement isn’t as effortless as it looks. Hear what it takes to make these projects a reality, from writing the initial supporting policies through their design, construction and management and learn why San Jose is making public life a top priority.
+ Michelle Huttenhoff / SPUR
+ Ryan Sebastian / Public Space Authority
+ Mayra Madriz / Gehl
+ Nicolle Burnham / San Jose Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services
+ Ed Solis / San Jose Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services
5:30 p.m.: Network with other urbanists while enjoying food and drinks from local businesses
6:30 p.m.: The conversation begins, followed by an audience Q&A
8:30 p.m.: Lights off and doors close — see you at the next one
This program is part of a series of SPUR-presented talks held at Backyard SJ, a new temporary public space created by The We Company in downtown San Jose. To learn more about the programs in the series, please visit their event pages:
- The State of Downtown (Aug. 29)
- The Changing Landscape of San Jose (Sep. 19)
- Art as a Community Catalyst (Sep. 26)
- Community Engagement Through Creative Action (Oct. 10)
- A New Wave of Innovative Leadership (Oct. 17)
- Pitch, Please (Oct. 19)
- Backyard Closing Party (Oct. 24)