City announces Open Boulevards program

A new city program will expand 10 multi-block corridors to create dining destination experiences throughout the city.
“Open Boulevards” builds off last year’s successful “Open Streets: Restaurants” program, which transformed miles of restaurant-heavy streets into open space for diners, cyclists, and pedestrians.
In addition to creating extra space for dining, Open Boulevards will feature cultural activities, community-based programming, landscaping and other beautification, and art installations.
“As a Brooklynite, I know that Open Streets like Vanderbilt Avenue have already illustrated how this city can thrive in this recovery,” said Department of Transportation Commissioner Hank Gutman. “Open Boulevards will give us a chance to further expand those success stories, driving even more business to vibrant communities and of course, great dining.”
“We’re pleased to support the new ‘Open Boulevards’ plan that will not only expand the City’s café culture across the five boroughs, but also add new arts, culture and community elements that will help boost New York City’s reawakening and attract visitors this summer and beyond,” said Fred Dixon, President and CEO at NYC & Company.
The City will mark Open Boulevards with branded light pole banners and gateways at entrances and public tables and chairs. Restaurants on Open Boulevards will receive free barriers to ensure safety for roadway diners and pedestrians.
In Queens, the program will include Ditmars Boulevard from 33rd to 36th streets and Woodside Avenue from 76th to 78th street.
In Brooklyn, Open Boulevard will include Vanderbilt Avenue from Atlantic Avenue to Park Place, and Fifth Avenue from Dean Street to Park Place, Sterling Place to Berkeley Place, President Street to 3rd Street, and 10th Street to 13th Street in Park Slope, and Fifth Avenue from 39th Street to 41st Street, 45th Street to 47th Street, and 55th Street to 59th Street in Sunset Park.
More information, including days, hours, and operating partners, can be found at nyc.gov/openboulevards.
“The Open Streets program offers much needed recreational space to Queens residents looking for ways to enjoy the outdoors and experience the vibrancy of our neighborhoods,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards. “The Open Boulevards program is a natural expansion of Open Streets and is a great way to make these destinations even more attractive.”