Issue link: http://palletcentral.uberflip.com/i/893182
palletcentral.com PalletCentral • September-October 2017 35 flexibility to adjust onsite, and they provide the option for expansion later on." "Pallets are also stable, easy to use, easy to obtain, and they can often be salvaged for re-use or relocation later on," said Michael Humes, who oversaw the installation phase of the project for MRA. "With pallets, there's very little waste, and people seem really taken with the idea of repurposing industrial components. Seeing a familiar item like a pallet being used outside of its normal context seems smart and clever, and yet kind of raw. In this case, it's an interesting irony that pallets, traditionally designed to hold and carry building materials, are themselves trendy building materials that help give the park its cool aesthetic," Humes added. Sandlot Park has definitely met its goal of revitalizing, re-energizing, and putting this harbor-front property to a higher use. "The Sandlot concept is based on the most fundamental requirements for successful placemaking – great food, great ambiance, and great fun," said Jones. "It proves that successful 'places' don't have to be expensive. Authenticity, clarity, simplicity, and an emphasis on experience is what makes this project so special." Since its opening in June of 2016, the Sandlot has become a vibrant and versatile public amenity for Baltimoreans. The development timeline for the park from design through to end of construction was approximately three months. Pallets used were mainly standard size pallets (48 x 48- inch, 42 x 42-inch and 48 x 40-inch). "The pallets and other materials were not specially constructed or custom designed," Jones said. "Everything about the sandlot is simple and honest. It's a little gritty, a little rough around the edges, but incredibly charming. And these are all characteristics that define Baltimore, so it just fits." "People seem to appreciate the natural, unstructured appeal of the place," Humes added. "I'm always amazed at the many ways kids invent to have fun on the steps and climbing structures. They don't overthink it; they just have fun." "I think the park's design and the materials themselves work together to foster a sense of connectedness and community. It's a beautiful setting, an amazing view, and a great place to hang out. People talk and interact with each other, and there's instant community. As we look for new pop-up opportunities and engagements, we will definitely consider use of pallets based on our experience and learnings from the Sandlot Park," Jones said. "Pallets are a natural." PC Leah Wheeler is a professional copywriter specializing in webwriting/SEO optimization, marketing and business communications, technical writing and articles. She may be reached at lleahwheeler@gmail.com.