The 5pm Post – Mount Rainier Better Block Project (MD) – April 9, 2011

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From an email:

“On April 9, 2011, local artists and volunteers will temporarily convert 1.5 blocks of 34th Street and Bunker Hill Road in Mount Rainier, MD into a vibrant, eclectic “Main Street” with a festival atmosphere. Better Block projects across the country have been a catalyst for sustained community development by providing a “live” demonstration of an area’s business potential.

The planning team behind the Mount Rainier Better Block project has energized residents, community leaders, resident artists and business owners to bring the project’s national success to a struggling business district in Prince George’s County.

This is a family-friendly event with food, shopping and musical performances offered at various locations along the avenue.”

You’ve heard of “Temporariums” and pop-up shops? Well, the Better Block Project is a pop-up neighborhood!
What:
The Better Block Project is a revitalization “tool” designed to enliven local neighborhoods and stimulate economic activity. For one day, local residents, artists, business owners and activists, get together and practice “do-it-yourself revitalization” transforming their neighborhood into their version of the ideal main street. Created by residents of Oak Cliff, a neighborhood in Dallas, TX, the idea has spread to several other cities including, Memphis, TN, Boston, MA, and New York.

Where:
34th Street, Mount Rainier, MD; starting at the circle on 34th and Rhode Island and continuing just beyond Bunker Hill Road

When:
April 9th, noon to 6 pm; rain date April 10th.

Activities:
Sweeping the Avenue: sponsored by Joe’s Movement Emporium, neighborhood volunteers will clean the streets prior to April 9th activities.

Artist/business partnerships: artists will be matched with business owners, create plans to improve business facades, create signage and artistic displays showcasing their wares.

Pop up businesses: vacant properties will temporarily house art galleries, cafes and small businesses, enabling property owners to creatively open their doors to potential tenants.

Performances: Dance and music performances on the main stage along with street performers.