Under the City’s Open Streets program, pedestrians and cyclists can use the roadbed of each street, and excluded vehicle traffic is monitored by local precincts in conjunction with local community partners.

No through vehicle traffic is permitted on open streets apart from limited local deliveries, pick-ups/drop-offs, necessary city service, utility, and emergency vehicles.

Drivers in such cases are alerted to be hyper-vigilant and to drive at 5 miles per hour along these routes. Open streets hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. but may vary slightly depending on staff availability.

“Our neighbors in Castle Hill have taken a hard hit during this pandemic – residents need and deserve the additional space to safely enjoy the summer weather, while continuing to follow social distancing protocols,” said State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi.

“I am grateful to the Mayor’s Office and the New York City Council for bringing the Open Streets initiative to Castle Hill, and look forward to its further expansion across District 34.”

Nine new miles of bike corridors will also be phased in over several weeks using barrels, signage, and other barriers, with a goal of creating critical connectors from already-established protected bike lanes.

Norwood News reported last summer about the addition of two new bike lanes on the Southern Boulevard, as well as the expansion of the Citi Bike program in the Bronx.

Organizations wishing to have other New York City streets considered for the Open Streets program should reach out to fill out an online survey. More information is available at nyc.gov/openstreets.