09/27/2023

Let's Party at the Pier! Programming + Design = Great Public Space

Creating inclusive public space does not stop with design. Programming and events - who is featured, how it is promoted, when it takes place, and how it's celebrated - all contribute to creating the audience that feels welcome and invited to be there.

In this session, learn how Jackson Street Pier, in operation since 1900 as a parking lot and waiting area for oncoming ferries, was transformed in 2019 into the City of Sandusky's premier open space (and winner of a 2022 Great Places in Ohio APA award!). The design of Jackson Street Pier brings the community together outdoors and enjoy live music, movies, speakers, vendors, and more. This flexible space invites people throughout the day to enjoy a walk, watch the sunset, go fishing, or throw a picnic. Events and programs produced by the city and local partners in 2021-2022 included Juneteenth festival and fireworks display, free concert series including Grammy-award winning Sugarhill Gang and local star The Voice finalist Crystal Bowersox, Winterfest, ArtWalks, Taste of Ohio Wine Festival, Ohio Bike Week, Movies by the Bay free movie series, and many more. Use our story to gather inspiration for the collaboration and programming you are working toward in your transformational public spaces.

Speakers
Arin Blair, AICP
McKenzie Spriggs
Tom Horsman
Stephen Ernst, MBA, CFE