Thoughts On Summit's Maple St. Pedestrian Plaza? Take The Survey

SUMMIT, NJ — For the third year in a row, Downtown Summit has closed off two blocks of Maple Street for pedestrians to enjoy outdoor dining.

The City of Summit is now considering closing off these portions of Maple Street for all or part of the calendar year on an annual basis, according to Summit Downtown Inc.

Residents are encouraged their thoughts on the potentially permanent closure via this survey.

Maple Street is currently closed to car and truck traffic from the 400 alley to Springfield Ave. and from Springfield Ave. to the driveway entrance to the Tier Garage.

Summit Downtown Inc. (SDI) is working with a consultant to gather input from area residents, business and property owners, conduct focus groups and analyze traffic study data to write a report so that Summit Common Council has the information it needs to make an informed decision on the matter.

According to SDI, closing Maple Street to cars and trucks offers an opportunity to "create a large public space for community programs, restaurant seating, retail space and space for people to walk or gather downtown."

The city first started implementing this pedestrian plaza during the COVID-19 pandemic to allow people to eat outdoors.

At a council meeting earlier in May, members unanimously voted to have Maple Street closed off until Nov. 30.

Patch also wants to know how residents feel about the Maple Street closure. Do you like the outdoor dining seating? Does it limit parking spaces in town? Comment your thoughts down below!

Have a news tip? Email remy.samuels@patch.com.