Madison Park

It’s official! You’re looking at the route of the first-ever Open Streets 704 here in Charlotte! The approximately three (3) mile route rolls from North Davidson Street and the NoDa area, through the Villa Heights, Optimist Park, Belmont, and First Ward neighborhoods to Memorial Stadium near CPCC. The entire stretch will be wide-open from 12pm – 4pm on May 1, 2016.

Click here for full size map  |  Click here for an interactive traffic control map

It’s important to understand that Open Streets 704 is different that any event that’s ever been in Charlotte. Yes, there will be activity and opportunity to engage with one another, the neighborhoods and businesses along the route. But Open Streets 704 is more about changing our perspective on how a community can interact with each other in a healthy, car-free, environment rather than creating another street festival.

Right now, Open Streets 704 is planning four (4) Featured Zones along the route. Each zone will have specific locations for coordinated or user-generated activities. Most will be on public property, and some will have a schedule that will be published here on the Open Streets 704 website. (Stay tuned for that!)

Featured Zones:

Arts and Science: Opportunities abound to explore your creative side. Musical performances, artist demonstrations, interactive maker spaces, and dance ensembles of all ages will engage with Open Street 704.

Family Zone: Fun for the whole family! From bean bag toss to a pop up dog park – be prepared to get active. Activities will include: street soccer, bicycling demonstrations, pet crafts,  life-size jenga, and more!

Green Zone: Be prepared to learn about nature, plant trees in the community, lend a helping hand in the garden, and talk about the wildlife from local nature centers.

Wellness Zone: Work on a fitter/healthier version of you! Cooking demonstrations, yoga classes, Zumba, and healthy heart initiatives will fill this zone with fun!

Soon, we’ll announce specific events and any applicable start times that can help you plan your afternoon at Open Streets 704!

Open Streets 704 is free and open to all to participate. Interested in hosting an activity with your business or neighbors? Contact monica.holmes@ci.charlotte.nc.us. Want to volunteer? Contact VolunteerServices@mecklenburgcountync.gov.

Not sure how to get there? Click here!

Why Open Streets?

Last September, Gil Penalosa – an international thought leader and advisor on urban planing and design – visited Charlotte for a series of Knight Foundation sponsored talks on the concept of “Open Streets” events and their role in creating a healthy, connected, people-centric community. Fast forward just a few short months, and the City of Charlotte is set to host its own “Open Streets” initiative – Open Streets 704 – beginning this spring!

What is an Open Streets Event?

Open Streets events temporarily close streets to automobile traffic so that people may use them for walking, bicycling, dancing, playing, and meeting their neighbors. Open Streets festivals currently take place in more than 100 cities across North America. These events typically are held on Sunday afternoons when traffic volumes are minimal.  Open Streets programs have proven to be successful at achieving goals related to recreation, public health, active transportation – like walking and biking – and community building.

When is Open Streets 704?

The first Open Streets 704 event in Charlotte is May 1, 2016! It will coincide with the opening weekend of BIKE! Charlotte, too! Streets will be open from noon to 4pm all along the route, with opportunities for engagement sprinkled all along the route. Details on the exact route for Open Streets 704 will be released soon. Businesses and neighbors along the route will be notified so they can plan accordingly or participate.

Does it Cost Anything to Participate in Open Streets 704?

Not a penny! Thanks to a generous donation from The Knight Foundation, Open Streets 704 is a free event for everyone in the community. The grant will allow for four (4) events over the next two (2) years, with the intent to secure sponsorship to sustain the program for long term community benefit.

Will Open Streets 704 Affect Traffic?

In a word, yes. However, Open Streets 704 events will be held on Sunday afternoons when traffic volumes are at their lowest. And, by coordinating with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and City of Charlotte Department of Transportation, we’re working to make the event as successful – and safe – as possible for all. So you know, the route won’t be completely impassible. “Soft closures” will allow traffic to cut through the route at points, and emergency vehicles will always have access.

Whom Can I Call if I Have Questions or Concerns?

Our Open Streets 704 social media channels are open 24/7/365. Feel free to message us there anytime! Or, call CharMeck Citizen Services at 311.

So Why “Open Streets 704”?

Media Inquiries?

How Can I Get Involved in Open Streets 704?

Open Streets 704 is for everyone! Whether you live or work along the route or not, Open Streets 704 is for you. Car-free streets, if only for the afternoon, give us all an opportunity to enjoy the connectivity that roads provide, but in a more healthful, carefree, and social atmosphere. If you, your business or organization would like to volunteer or participate with Open Streets 704 in a more formal way, contact Volunteer Services at VolunteerServices@mecklenburgcountync.gov

Open Street This Sunday ......