Bedford Ave to Eliminate Autos (for 4 Days)

If you've ever been to Bedford Avenue in Williamsburg on a weekend day, you'll know the sidewalks can become overcrowded, especially on the north side. This summer the pedestrian traffic jams will be eliminated...at least for four days. The Brooklyn Paper reports "the city will close Bedford Avenue to traffic, turning the thoroughfare into a pedestrian-only plaza between Metropolitan Avenue and North Ninth Street." The project has been in talks for a while now, and is called Williamsburg Walks, appropriate since it is centered around walking, and doesn't include any special events, street fair type activities or vendors. Sadly, there will be no carpet made of artificial grass...but if you're okay with plain 'ol pavement, head over there any Saturday between July 19th and August 9th.

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By Jen Carlson in News on July 3, 2008 10:21 AM

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Spirit of 76

same question as with the manhattan one - why not do this on sunday rather than saturday? seems like it would be more appropriate.

Probably because a lot of people want to go to church Sunday morning. Not much in this event, though, only six blocks. Far short of the seven miles in Summer Streets. I'm definitely going to Summer Streets.

salad

perfect! i am going to get my shotgun and some extra rounds.

ccolvin

Over at billburg.com, we are very excited about Williamsburg Walks and want to make sure that all members of the community are informed. We have a forum set up for questions and comments: billburg.com/walks/discuss, but I wanted to take a minute to answer your questions personally.

Regarding the B61 bus, it will be rerouted for the duration of the event. We are still waiting for confirmation on the exact street it will be rerouted to.

This event is an experiment & community feedback will determine any future similar events. We are very thankful to Transportation Alternatives who will be conducting surveys so that we have actual data to reflect on; please take advantage of this opportunity and talk to them! Your voice matters.

We considered holding Williamsburg Walks on Sunday instead of Saturday, but were too far into the logistics, planning & permit process to make any day changes. This is something we may consider if we are able to recreate this event. We believe that Sunday or Saturday, the event will be a success, and we're looking forward to everyone coming out and enjoying themselves.

If anyone has any questions, comments or feedback, please feel free to contact Connie at williamsburgwalks (at) billburg (dot) com.

meowster

Great, now Berry Street is going to be a complete shit show. I wouldn't care if I didn't live on it.

virgil

@PBRK My guess is that the B61 would be routed onto Berry, which runs parallel to Bedford from Broadway to Lorimer.

Think2wice

I wonder what degree of exclusivity for each street is appropriate to make that street less congested, more pedestrian friendly, but still maintains/increases commerce for business owners?