Open Street

Usage: Wide

Open Streets prioritize pedestrians, cyclists, and other non-vehicular users by restricting or limiting vehicle access through barriers, signage, or other traffic devices and Common Components. These streets create safer, more vibrant public spaces and support a range of community uses, including recreation, cultural programming, and local business engagement.

Open Streets can be classified as Limited Local Access, Full Closure, or Full Closure: Schools, each with specific operational guidelines. These designations help balance access needs while maximizing pedestrian and cyclist usability.

34th Avenue, Queens
103rd Street, Manhattan

Benefits

  • Fosters community-building among neighbors
  • Prioritizes pedestrians and cyclists
  • Provides opportunities for arts and cultural programming, community arts and crafts, active and healthy living, and educational activities for all ages
  • Supports local businesses, educational institutions, and community-based organizations by increasing foot traffic and outdoor activity
  • Promotes the use of streets as public space

Considerations

Process

  • Open Streets applicants apply on an annual basis. Returning partners must reapply but are able to utilize a short-form application

Application

  • NYC DOT reviews applications to designate an Open Street based on certain criteria including but not limited to the equitable distribution of Open Streets, site context, and the presence of bus routes, truck routes, or medical facilities. For more information, review the Open Streets Rules

Design

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