Community Corner

Open Streets Season Begins In NYC With 100+ Locations: See Here

The program provides new ways for residents to enjoy cultural programming and build community, according to the NYC DOT.

(NYC DOT )

NEW YORK CITY — Open Streets season has started in New York City with more than 150 initial locations operating across the city so far.

The New York City Department of Transportation's program provides more public space for New Yorkers to promote economic development, support schools, facilitate pedestrian and bike mobility, and provide new ways for residents to enjoy cultural programming and build community.

“Open Streets provide an opportunity to showcase neighborhoods and strengthen local businesses by transforming roadways into spaces that encourage connection and community engagement,” NYC DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn said. “We appreciate the dedication of our community partners who help ensure these spaces are safe, lively, and welcoming while also helping to expand the program fairly and inclusively to neighborhoods across the city.”

Find out what's happening in New York Cityfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

This year, NYC DOT is partnering with CitizensNYC so Open Streets community partners across the city can access funding faster and with less administrative burden in addition to a more streamlined payment process.

The agency is also planning to redesign existing Open Streets that could benefit from traffic-calming measures and streetscape elements to better prioritize pedestrians and cyclists.

Find out what's happening in New York Cityfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

This year's redesigns include:

Avenue B

The redesign of Avenue B from East 4th Street to East 12th Street aims to improve safety on the corridor with a focus on schools, formalize two-way cycling on the corridor to create safe cycling connections, and calm vehicular traffic.

Decatur Ave

The project consists of a raised mid-block enhanced crossing and curb extensions to improve pedestrian safety and overall experience, reduce vehicle speeds, and support Open Street programming.

NYC DOT is continuing to accept applications for the 2026 Open Streets season on a rolling basis. Applications from educational institutions such as schools, colleges, or universities must be received by June 10 to receive an application decision by the start of the academic year in September 2026.

New Yorkers can visit nyc.gov/OpenStreets to see locations and program hours.

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