Parklets help businesses in Puyallup

Puyallup has officially welcomed summer with the installation of seven parklets for local businesses, enhancing outdoor dining and storefront visibility. Each parklet occupies one on-street parking space, selected through an annual lottery. Businesses such as Wicked Pie Pizzeria and Lick Ice Cream will benefit from these installations, which aim to extend restaurant spaces into the street. Kerry Yanasak, Director of the Puyallup Main Street Association, highlighted the parklets as vital for improving downtown's visual appeal and supporting local businesses. Recent upgrades, including flower boxes and furniture, cost over $17,000, aimed at creating a cohesive aesthetic.

Yanasak pointed out that while some businesses excelled in their parklet designs, others fell short, prompting PMSA to step in for uniformity. This initiative not only beautifies downtown Puyallup but also fosters community pride and economic activity. The ongoing program, which began during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrates the city's commitment to supporting local enterprises.