The Community Has Spoken - It's On!
Updated: Jun 4, 2021
As a result of merchant and resident interest, the 5th Ave BID announced that it will be participating in the Department of Transportation’s, Open Streets Program this summer. While similar to previous Fun on 5th Weekend Walks of yesteryear, the newly reconfigured program relies solely on the BID and participating merchants to host the events. Past events were in part funded by the City, but this year due to budget constraints, communities are expected to pick themselves up by the bootstraps if they want something like Summertime Strolls or Weekend Walks. Some BIDs have struggled to mobilize additional staff and resources. Other BID’s, like Park Slope and Vanderbilt, have had success in the sense that eating & drinking establishments are capitalizing on the influx of foot traffic. But without restaurants and retailers taking advantage of Open Streets and expanding their establishments out beyond their storefronts and curbs, the monthly events will be little more than lifeless street closures. So, merchants and residents it is up to you to make Open Streets a success!
A call to action! You can host activities!
You wanted it, so we will provide. Show up to 5th Ave’s Open Streets this summer and frequent your favorite restaurants and support 5th Ave’s mom & pop retailers. Do you have an idea for an activity that you would like to host at an Open Street? Here are some examples:
Share, sell, or make art
Set up a table for your organization
Host a workshop or presentation
Play some music
Let us know your ideas here, and let's make it happen. Open Streets are for the community and by the community. Take part in the experience. Join us on the last Friday of the month (June 25th, July 30th August 27th, September 24th, October 29th).