Renovation Plans Move Forward To Make Open Quimby Permanent In Westfield

WESTFIELD, NJ — Plans are moving forward to renovate Quimby Street and make the pedestrian plaza called Open Quimby permanent, announced Westfield Mayor Shelley Brindle at the June 24 Council meeting.

Open Quimby was first put in place in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic to help support businesses and outdoor dining.

However, concerns have arisen that the Town plans to address. Brindle said the Town recently issued an RFP(Requisition For Proposal) for a streetscape engineering and design plan.

"While Open Quimby has proven to be very, very popular, it has created some parking and operational challenges, and it's not very flexible," said Brindle.

She added that the big cement barricades that are required to keep pedestrians safe impact the flexibility.

"The idea is we are going to create a permanent one-way with a flexible street that can be easily opened and closed with electric bollards on either end. And it can restore parking full-time when the street isn’t closed for events full-time," said Brindle.

The deadline for the RFP is the end of July. Brindle expects the Town to select a design firm and award a contract in late August.

"I’m very excited about the potential for this site," said Brindle. "Hopefully, it will be done in time for next summer. We’ll be enjoying a beautiful festival street on Quimby Street, which will be great."

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