Guided Walk - Transforming Public Spaces

The theme of this walk is how public spaces can be used for beauty, education, and public benefit, and how they can be transformed using trees, plants, permeable pavers, and art. It is led by Ellyn Shea, a consulting arborist, garden coach, educator, and owner of Garden Guidance LLC.

We'll meet at In Chan Kaajal Park, then begin our walk on Shotwell Street where landscape designer, architect, and sidewalk garden pioneer Jane Martin lived and where she and her neighbors transformed the block in the '00s by converting "hardscape" to "softscape." We'll visit several of Jane's later sidewalk garden designs and some sidewalk gardens created by Friends of the Urban Forest. We'll finish at Balmy Alley, the iconic block-long alley that features various artists' constantly changing collections of murals.

We recommend you wear comfortable shoes, and bring water (to stay hydrated) and sun protection. Please give yourself extra time and arrive at least five minutes early, as we're aiming to start promptly at 10 a.m.

Note that this walk does not end where it began -- instead, you'll be about a 20-minute walk from the starting point. Both the starting and ending points are within a block of public transit.

Note also that our events happen rain or shine, and tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded.