Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla announced today the continuation of Hoboken’s open streets pilot this weekend on Adams Street between 3rd and 9th Streets. The purpose of the open streets pilot is to provide additional space for social distancing for residents outdoors and alleviate overcrowding in City parks and other public spaces. Adams Street will be closed to traffic between 3rd and 9th Streets between 8 am and 8 pm on Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17. Last weekend, Jefferson Street served as the City’s first open street pilot during COVID-19.
“Last weekend’s successful launch on Jefferson Street demonstrated that open streets serve as a great way to get some fresh air while practicing safe social distancing,” said Mayor Bhalla. “As a result, we are bringing open streets to Adams Street this weekend, to provide additional options for outdoor space and alleviate crowds in other public places. Based on the positive responses, responsible usage, and popularity of the program, we’ll be looking for ways to expand open streets in the weeks and months to come.”
Over 2,280 people filled out the City’s open street survey this week. 88% of total respondents want “open streets” to continue during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide additional space for social distancing. 74% want open streets to continue when COVID-19 is no longer a factor, while 84% want Washington Street to operate as an open street, even if it meant a temporary loss in parking.
When asked for their primary reason for using the open street, 75% said for recreation and 17% said it was on their way to another destination. Users reported walking and biking as their most common activities.
Among the 386 respondents who indicated they live on Jefferson Street, 80% support open streets to continue on Jefferson Street or another street during the COVID-19 pandemic, and 66% support open streets after the pandemic.
During the open street pilot on Adams Street, walking, jogging, and biking are permitted on the open street, while congregating is prohibited. Face masks should be worn at all times.
Traffic control officers (TCOs) will be on hand to assist residents in vehicles who need access to enter or exit their garages. Residents do not need to move their vehicles parked on Adams Street in advance of the weekend and can exit Adams Street in their vehicles on Saturday or Sunday.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, open streets were implemented with the goal of creating safe, public access to streets for pedestrians, cyclists, and other users.
Link to open streets survey results: click here
