The Pedestrian Plaza will return to Ridgewood on Saturdays and Sundays from June 3 – October 9, 2023

file photos by Boyd Loving

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, the Pedestrian Plaza, where streets are closed to vehicular traffic from Walnut Street to Broad Street, along East Ridgewood Avenue, will be held on Saturdays and Sundays from June 3 – October 9, 2023. There will be music and entertainment in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square on Saturday night and Sunday. Each month will be culturally themed, and there will be special activities for children. Please plan to come and shop, dine, and enjoy the entertainment this summer.

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Pedestrian plazas are areas that have been closed off to vehicular traffic and reserved exclusively for pedestrians. Downtown pedestrian plazas have become increasingly popular in many cities around the world. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of these plazas:

Advantages:

1. Increased Foot Traffic: Pedestrian plazas create a more inviting and attractive environment for people to walk around, which can lead to an increase in foot traffic and subsequently boost economic activity in the area.
2. Improved Air Quality: With no cars, buses, or trucks driving through the area, pedestrian plazas can improve air quality by reducing pollution levels, creating a healthier environment for people to spend time in.
3. Increased Safety: Pedestrian plazas can create a safer environment for pedestrians, as there are no cars or other vehicles to contend with. This can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries in the area.
4. Social Space: Pedestrian plazas can provide a space for people to socialize, relax and enjoy the public spaces, creating a sense of community in the area.

Disadvantages:

1. Traffic Disruption: Closing off streets for pedestrian plazas can create traffic congestion in the surrounding area, which can be a problem for both commuters and businesses.
2. Noise Pollution: Pedestrian plazas can be noisy, particularly if they are located in busy urban areas. This can be a nuisance for nearby residents and businesses.
3. Maintenance: Pedestrian plazas require regular maintenance, which can be expensive. Maintaining the area can be particularly challenging during extreme weather conditions, which can lead to problems such as ice and snow accumulation.
4. Limited Access: Pedestrian plazas can limit access to certain areas of the city, particularly for those who rely on vehicles or public transport to get around.

Overall, pedestrian plazas have many advantages, but there are also some challenges associated with their implementation. It’s important to consider the specific context and needs of each city before implementing pedestrian plazas.