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Student planners seek board support for Sept. 19 Parking Day in downtown mobility hub
Summary
Student planning group presented a proposal to convert two parking spaces north of the Downtown Mobility Hub into temporary parklets for Parking Day on Sept. 19; board expressed informal support and staff agreed to help with permitting and coordination but cannot grant final permits at the meeting.
A student planning group asked the San Marcos Parking Advisory Board for permission to use two parking spaces north of the Downtown Mobility Hub on Sept. 19 to create temporary “parklets” as part of the global Parking Day event.
The presentation was given by Jay Allison, who introduced himself as “vice president of Souto,” and by a second student who identified themselves as president of the same group. Allison summarized the concept: “It's where the park day comes from. We're turning parking space into parks, small parks.” The students proposed using two spaces for a removable setup of chairs, picnic blankets, turf, sidewalk chalk and cones from roughly 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The board and staff discussed safety and logistics. Charles (staff) noted the board could express support but that the parks department and other city departments retain permitting authority. Jamie Lee Case (Director Case) and other staff said the city cannot provide a final permit at the meeting but that city staff would work with organizers on permits, coordination and connections with Main Street and other partners. Dr. Rosalie Ray (vice chair) and Chair John David Carson both said the proposal was a good idea and thanked the students for reviving the event.
Board members emphasized event safety and cleanup: no glitter, biodegradable chalk only, and locating parklets where traffic speeds are low. Students said all materials would be removable the same day and that they planned safety markings (cones) and minimal infrastructure.
Outcome: The board expressed broad, informal support and staff offered to help organizers pursue permits and coordinate with Main Street and other departments. No permit or formal approval was issued at the meeting.
The students said they would reconvene with city staff to pursue the required permits, and staff indicated they would coordinate on permit processes and event insurance/operations as needed.
Notes: The students used the names “Souto”/“Supo” in their presentation; spellings in the transcript varied. The board suggested the organizers partner with local groups (Main Street, Texas State student groups) and to bring printed outreach materials to the event if available.
