Summer Streets starts in Queens, Staten Island this weekend
QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) – Miles of streets in Queens and Staten Island will close to vehicles this weekend, the first iteration of Summer Streets, which will hit all five boroughs.
From 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, stretches of Queens and Staten Island will be open only to pedestrians and cyclists. Instead of the sounds of cars, the roads will be filled with music, art and activities like a rock wall and book fair.
On Aug. 3, 10 and 17, Manhattan will see miles of road closed off to vehicles, followed by Brooklyn and the Bronx on Aug. 24.
In total, over 20 miles of New York City streets will close throughout the summer, an expansion from last year’s program.
“There’s nothing quite like summertime in New York City,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez.
Want to enjoy Summer Streets on a bike? Citi Bike will offer free day passes for 24 hours for Summer Streets with the promo code “CITISUMMER24!”.
Here’s what to expect at the Queens Summer Street:
Closure: Vernon Boulevard from 44 Drive to 30 Road
Rest stops: 30 Drive and Vernon Boulevard; 41st Avenue between Vernon Boulevard and 10th Street
Activities: Activities will include Coca-Cola tasting, interactive art exhibits, a book fair by Thai Community USA, chess, an NYPD rock wall, calligraphy demonstrations, Zumba class, and pilates. Check out the full list of activities on NYC DOT’s website.
Performances: Both rest stops will have musical performances, including a mariachi band at 30 Drive and local artist Alejo Portela.
Here’s what’s planned for the Staten Island Summer Street:
Closure: Broadway between Richmond Terrace and Clove Road
Rest stops: Richmond Terrace and Broadway to Wayne Street and Broadway; between Glenwood Place, Broadway and Clove Road
Activities: Activities include summer slime and crafts, pickleball and dominoes, batting cages, a skate station with rentals and outdoor volleyball. See a full list of activities here.
Performances: Performances at both rest stops include Brooklyn Ballet, eGALitarian Brass Band and a mariachi band.