Last weekend, Austin Street came alive with families, music, and neighbors celebrating the first-ever Austin Day block party — a joyful activation of public space that showed what’s possible when the community comes together.

For months, Open Plans supported Neighbors for a Safer Austin Street and local residents Pedro, Daniel, Michael, and others to turn this vision into reality. From brainstorming sessions and site visits to navigating the Open Streets permit process and canvassing local businesses, we provided the tools and support needed to set the stage.

On the day of the event, our focus shifted to logistics — making sure every piece of the puzzle was in place so the community’s vision could shine. Neighborhood partners brought energy and purpose: Queenslink engaged residents on the need for better transit, the Forest Hills Green Team shared environmental tips, and kids enjoyed street safety games while families relished the calm of a car-light street. The result? Between the flow of strollers and lively conversations, this bustling pocket of Central Queens actually moved at a slower, more human pace.

We’ve seen again and again that the biggest impact comes from a vibrant ecosystem of community partners working together. And that’s where you come in. Imagine your block hosting the next Austin Day. With the right tools and support, your street could be safer, more joyful, and more connected.

👉 Interested? Reach out to us at info@openplans.org and we can help you brainstorm, understand the process, or strategize for what could work in your neighborhood. In the meantime, check out Clarence’s video recap on Streetfilms and don’t forget to show Neighbors for a Safer Austin Street some love!

Over coffee at Café Paulette in Brooklyn, District 35 Council Member Crystal Hudson shared with us how outdoor dining creates opportunities for local businesses, what council members can do to support open streets, and more!

DOT created commercial loading zones to clear traffic lanes, but Int. 1000 would let for-hire vehicles occupy that space for 30 minutes. We need dedicated FHV curb space, not unnecessary competition for loading zones.

DOT's 'Smart Curbs' pilot promised to make better use of street space on the UWS. But opposition aimed at protecting a handful of free parking spots may doom the project before it gets a real chance, setting a troubling precedent for future street improvements citywide.

What do NYers want in their neighborhoods? What if a single approach can deliver all of these outcomes? Join us on Sept. 30 as we explore a neighborhood approach to reducing traffic for more livable, community-oriented streets.

Intro 1138 would bring universal daylighting to NYC, clearing visual obstructions at intersections to keep everyone safer. If you haven't done so already, send a letter asking the city to prioritize New Yorkers safety and pass CM Julie Won's bill.

📸 Cross Bronx/Living Legend Exhibition Opening | Fri, Sep 26 | 5-8 PM

See the Cross Bronx corridor through the eyes of those who call it home. This exhibition at the Bronx River Art Center features photography by Abigail Montes and voices from dozens of Bronx residents, moving beyond destruction narratives to showcase community resilience, joy, and expertise in neighborhoods like Highbridge and West Farms.

🎉 !WEPA! Festival Returns | Sat, Sep 27 | 12-6 PM

Southside's beloved street festival is back with "DEFEND! ¡Pa'lante!" theme! This all-day celebration of Latino joy features live performances by WEPA Kru, Los Muralistas, and Museum on Wheels, plus workshops, a legendary El Puente Breakers cypher, and CADRE Creators Market showcasing community artists and visionaries.

🛼 Party On Park Open Streets | Sun, Sep 28 | 12-4 PM

The Park Avenue Viaduct becomes East Harlem's playground for four hours! No cars, just neighbors having fun—borrow a bike, register your own, dance to DJ Ted Smooth, grab some Jackson Soul Catering, or join the guided ride to Randall's Island.

🚸 School Streets 101 Workshop | Mon, Oct 6 | 12-1 PM

Want to close the street outside your child's school to cars? Learn how at this virtual workshop! Discover how School Streets create safer, more playful spaces for children while we at Open Plans do most of the heavy lifting. Perfect for parents ready to transform chaotic drop-off zones into places where kids can truly be kids.

🚶 Canal Street Redesign Community Workshops | Multiple dates in Sep/Oct

Help redesign one of NYC's most chaotic corridors! DOT's comprehensive Canal Street proposal includes safer pedestrian crossings, expanded bike networks, and more public space. Join community workshops running from Sep 25-Oct 1 at various Canal Street intersections, or share feedback online at bit.ly/canalredesign.

🎭 The Longest Table at Gotham Park | Sat, Oct 18 | 12-3:30 PM

What's better than a potluck? A potluck with opera! Bring something to share and join neighbors for an afternoon of food and conversation, followed by Teatro Grattacielo's performance. Perfect excuse to finally make that recipe you've been meaning to try and meet the people who live around you.

📚 Life After Cars Book Launch | Tue, Oct 21 | 8-9 PM

The hosts of The War on Cars podcast are here with their new book! Sarah Goodyear and Doug Gordon present a searing look at how cars ruin everything—and actionable ways to fight back. Perfect for anyone ready to help create more sustainable, livable communities beyond car dependency. 

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