Open Streets Macon invites Maconites to reclaim public streets once again this fall. The movement will close the streets to cars and open them to people as part of a greater initiative to create safer streets for pedestrians and cyclists. As the Macon community continues to navigate public health concerns related to COVID-19, Open Streets’ event structure has been reformatted to adhere to recommended best practices. In the place of one, miles-long route that invites the greater community, Open Streets will be divided into three smaller routes that are aimed at engaging the immediate neighborhood communities located on and around the routes. The event details are as follows:

• SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 | MAYNARD ST. | 2-6 PM

• SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18 | MONROE/TATTNALL ST. | 2-6 PM

• SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15 | SECOND ST. (MEMORIAL GYM)  | 2-6 PM

Although this is the fifth consecutive year local non-profit Bike Walk Macon will host the event, this is the first time Open Streets Macon will simultaneously serve as a day of infrastructure improvements thanks to a grant award from AARP. All projects will be traffic-calming and based on feedback from residents of the immediate area. The stretch of streets will be closed to motorized traffic (except for intersections where cars will be free to cross). There is no registration, and Open Streets Macon is free and open to the public.

Neighbors are encouraged to lend a helping hand in the tactical urbanism projects, participate in an activity, or simply join in on the fun of a car-free street. Those in the greater community who are interested in volunteering or being an activity partner are invited to contact Bike Walk Macon. All attendees are asked to wear a mask and practice physical distancing throughout the afternoon of outdoor activity.

GET INVOLVED:

• Organize an activity on the day - Participants will have the opportunity to take part in free activities, such as sports, exercise classes, and other health and wellness activities. Open Streets Macon will be seeking business and community partners to provide programming such as yoga, dance, basketball and kid- and senior-friendly activities along the route.

• Join the volunteer team - In order to make this a safe and enjoyable event for all, Open Streets Macon needs dozens of dedicated volunteers to help bring the streets of Macon to life.

• Become a sponsor - Keep Open Streets Macon financially possible for years to come.

Visit openstreetsmacon.com to learn more, sign up to volunteer, host an activity, and find sponsorship opportunities. For questions, contact Koryn Young at 917-412-4661 or [email protected]. For media inquiries, contact Koryn.