http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/14/opinion/sunday/presto-instant-playground.html
Opinion
Presto, Instant Playground
By ALEC APPELBAUM
Published: August 13, 2011
Can a trendy retail tactic promote healthier living in low-income urban neighborhoods?
Interesting idea from several New York neighborhood associations. They temporarily close neighborhood streets and create "pop up" playgrounds with different sports for the local communities. They have their arguments on how these temporary playgrounds might motivate children and parents to get out of the house and exercise once the street is reopened. Although I could see it having some impact, I find myself wishing for a more sustainable permanent approach. It is easy to get caught up in the excitement and get out and play when enthusiastic 20 somethings are showing your kid how to play tennis on a mini tennis net in the middle of a normally busy street. When its gone though, it is just as easy to stay home and play the wii.
