Los Angeles officials are advocating the creation of "parklets"; small urban parks that turn sidewalks into gardens, spaces for seating and other public uses.

City council members Jan Perry and Jose Huizar are expected to introduce a motion Friday asking city departments to help out with demonstration projects in downtown and in two neighborhoods to the northeast.

These mini public spaces aim to encourage pedestrian foot traffic and increase open space in the city.

Such parks have sprung up in New York City and San Francisco in recent years.