A park bench at a pocket park located at The Episcopal School in Dallas. (Photo by staff photographer)
There's a movement going on in urban and suburban areas to bring parks closer to residents, improve unsightly abandoned lots and help people socialize.
They are called "Pocket Parks."
The concept is a simple one and so is the process to build one.
All it takes is some dedicated citizens, assistance from the local parks and recreation department, donors and some elbow grease.
But the rewards can be plentiful.
Pocket parks are small, but benefits are hugeTo get people fired up about the idea, let's start with the benefits of pocket parks:
Transforms a vacant lot, perhaps an eyesore, into a beautiful, relaxing place to gather. Improves