Until 1 p.m., the organization set up a "temporary public park" in a metered parking space at 212 Merchant St. The 160-square-foot space featured turf, trees and seating.

Pedestrians were invited to hang out in the "park" for shade, and passersby were treated to 'ukulele music.

The purpose of the demonstration was to generate awareness about open public spaces. Trust for Public Land employees in more than 30 other cities were also transforming parking spaces into parks.