Major Upper West Side Open Street Returning Soon: What To Know

UPPER WEST SIDE, NY — One of the largest Open Streets on the Upper West Side from last year will reopen soon along Columbus Avenue.

The Columbus Avenue Business Improvement District will be reopening the Open Street stretch from West 68th to 77th streets on May 15.

It will run every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. until Oct. 30.

During the period the street is completely closed to non-emergency vehicle traffic. Cars and bus traffic will resume each Sunday along the Columbus stretch by 8 p.m.

“Last Fall, Open Streets transformed Columbus Avenue and was enthusiastically received by the community,” says Nicole Paynter, Executive Director of the Columbus Avenue BID, said in a news release. “This year, we’re excited to introduce a more robust programming schedule and more opportunities for people to enjoy the vibrant public space and utilize the area in creative ways."

The Upper West Side BID said it will focus more this year on improving logistical support, increasing clear signage directing cyclists, and ensuring accessibility for emergency vehicles.

To this end, the Department of Transportation will be placing large digital traffic signs to inform drivers of the street closures and inform drivers of optional routes.

Businesses along Columbus Avenue will be participating in the Open Street program by adding more outdoor dining. Other planned activities include acoustic music, games and chalk, interactive art workshops and more.

You can check out a list of the participating businesses on the Columbus Avenue Business Improvement District's website.