In San Francisco two years ago, a group called Rebar descended on a number of parking spaces. They fed money into the meters, rolled out sod, and installed trees and benches. They created pocket parks that lasted until the timers ran out--asserting the claim that dense urban centers need more open space. Last year, the idea spread to thirteen other cities, including New York, London and Rio. Friday of this week has been designated as Parking Day LA.
Image: Flickr via parkingdayla.org