It’s official friends, Newark Ave officially became a pedestrian plaza as of yesterday. The block going from Grove to Erie will be closed to all road traffic FOREVER, all day, everyday!

I went to check it out yesterday and noticed that people who were walking on Newark Ave seemed a little confused, and this morning a few people at my gym asked me if it was just a one time thing…So it is my duty to let all my wonderful readers know about this wonderful news! It’s a game changer for the downtown area.

I reached out to Mayor Steven Fulop to get the scoop about the Newark Ave pedestrian plaza and he said “They are painting the street on Saturday

… working on getting some street art…. expanding the seating options…getting a landscaper… It will get really good and it is permanent”.

Exciting stuff!!

Yesterday when I walked by they set up a huge bouncy castle and the kids were having a blast! (this will not be up everyday though). That being said there will be different “activities” planned throughout the summer on the plaza, as soon as I know more I will update you all!

I am pretty sure all the restaurants now are going to expand on their outdoor seating options, which also means less waiting time! #winning

Last year I remember going to Roman Nose for a family dinner (during the time the pedestrian plaza was open) we sat outside and enjoyed a nice bottle of wine while mini-chicpea made new friends on the plaza. I felt like I was in Europe!

Newark Ave. Pedestrian Plaza = ChicpeaJC’s new favorite hangout spot.