What is a pocket park?
Pocket parks are small, accessible outdoor spaces designed to provide community gathering areas in locations where larger parks aren’t possible. These spaces can transform vacant lots or underused corners into vibrant hubs of activity, creativity, and connection. Our pocket park concept follows the model developed by Better Block, a Texas-based organization revitalizing urban areas through innovative, community-driven design. By bringing this model to our community, we aim to create a unique and welcoming space that reflects our local identity.
Why create a pocket park?
In small communities like Chehalis, pocket parks can serve a powerful purpose: to strengthen neighborhood ties and promote a sense of belonging and pride. Pocket parks generally offer a space for residents to gather and socialize and enhance the charm of downtown and business districts. These parks are more than just outdoor spaces; they are a place to connect and celebrate community life.
A well-designed pocket park supports local economic growth by increasing foot traffic and encouraging people to linger, shop, and dine in the area. It becomes a natural setting for pop-up markets, local performances, youth activities, and spontaneous gatherings, making downtown more vibrant, welcoming, and livable.
Creating a pocket park in Chehalis is an innovative element of urban design known as creative placemaking. This approach has numerous benefits for the community, both aesthetically and socially. By transforming underutilized or overlooked spaces into vibrant, functional areas, a pocket park adds beauty, purpose, and energy to the downtown corridor. More than just an outdoor space, it becomes a welcoming hub where people can gather, relax, and enjoy casual encounters with neighbors and visitors. These shared spaces promote community interaction, support mental well-being, and contribute to a stronger sense of belonging. Pocket parks are inclusive by design, offering something for everyone, whether it’s a quiet spot to sit, a place for small events, or an engaging area for families. Additionally, they help attract foot traffic to local businesses and support ongoing efforts to revitalize downtown.
The pocket park will contain elements including the following:
DryBox (Concession Box) |
The pocket park will be available for public and private events held by local businesses and organizations. Rental fees will support maintenance and park programming, managed by Experience Chehalis. The pocket park will be reserved online with a modest fee.
Park security will be a top priority to ensure a safe and welcoming environment. Clear signage will indicate this park is located on private property, and trespassing after hours will not be allowed. To maintain safety, the park will close at dusk. Furthermore, seating will be strategically designed to discourage long-term stays, preventing sleeping or lounging. The furniture will be heavy to ensure it cannot be easily maneuvered, manipulated, or removed. Security cameras will be installed, and the space will be well lit after hours with patio lights.
Experience Chehalis is committed to a beautiful, safe, and well-maintained park. The maintenance plan will include:
The Chehalis Community Pocket Park is a grassroots effort to transform a downtown space into a vibrant hub of creativity, connection, and community—and we’d love to have you as a partner in making it happen! Whether through time, materials, or financial support, your involvement helps bring this exciting vision to life for families, youth, and visitors alike.
Becoming a sponsor is more than a donation—it’s a lasting investment in Chehalis. As a sponsor, you’ll play a vital role in creating a welcoming public space that reflects the spirit of our town. It’s also a powerful way to showcase your brand. Your business will be prominently recognized through:
Join us in shaping a space that will be loved for years to come—and proudly say you helped build it.
