In an age where we feel more disconnected than ever, the need for third spaces has never been more important. On an Open Street, people traffic replaces car traffic, and streets are transformed into places where people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can gather and build community. They are free regularly occurring public programs that offer communities the opportunity to experience their city streets in a whole new light.
From Amherst to Astoria
In June 2023, I moved from a small town in rural western Massachusetts to the blossoming concrete jungle called New York City. Back in Amherst, I got to know my community through habitually attending the Amherst Farmer’s Market at 1pm every Saturday. I’d sip locally pressed apple cider topped with perfectly spiced apple butter, sit on the grass listening to live local musicians, and people-watch as kids shrieked and parents tried to hush them. It was in these small, joyful moments that I felt most connected to where I lived.
When I arrived in the city, I wondered how I could replicate that same sense of belonging. I chose to live in Astoria, Queens, a neighborhood known for its comforting residential atmosphere. A few days after my move, I stumbled upon what I assumed was a block party while walking along 31st Avenue. The street was closed to cars. Children played hopscotch and corn hole. Neighbors chatted over chess boards. Farther up the street, I bought a cookie from a local baker. When I asked if it was a one-time event, she replied, “No, this is 31st Avenue Open Street. I’m here almost every weekend.” I’ve been a regular visitor ever since.
What Is 31st Avenue Open Street
The 31st Avenue Open Street is part of NYC Open Streets, a program coordinated by the Mayor’s Office and NYCDOT. Open Streets started in 2020 as a way for people to gather and safely socialize at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic when open spaces were limited. The program, which is now permanent by city law, supports safe passageways for cycling and walking, markets, and vibrant public programming.
Public Markets
31st Ave Open Street offers a low-cost way for local makers to sell their goods through hosting regular markets for the community. All proceeds from vendor donation fees are circulated back into the community by supporting the Astoria Food Pantry. Some markets are organized around specific theme causes, such as The City Critter Craft Fair which featured NYC wildlife themed goods and donated a portion of the sales to local wildlife rehabbers.
Most of the art that decorates my new apartment walls are from the artists I’ve met at the public market. There is something uniquely special about conversing with the artists about their technique, craft, and what inspires them to create. When I look at my walls, I admire that the pieces are connected to a person and story that is localized to my community. I have a framed linocut print of a fluffy black cat on my desk. The artist told me she was commissioned to make it for her friend. I love it because he reminds me of my childhood black cat.
On May 11th, 31st Ave Open Street debuted Astoria’s first monthly Farmer’s Market to the community. On that hot Spring day, I had never seen an open street so packed. It was a true beauty to see everyone support their local farmers and bakers. In an age where the food system is so globalized, I often feel a disconnect between the food I eat to nourish my body where it comes from. Farmer’s markets help reconnect communities to their food systems. They create spaces where farmers can sell fresh local ingredients and provide education on food products and sustainability.
Programming, Community Involvement, and Collective Action
A section of Open Streets is dedicated to tabling from formal or informal community-based organizations. The Astoria Food Pantry offers pamphlets on events and an opportunity to drop off donations of reusable grocery bags, menstrual pads, packets of seasoned tuna, and crackers. The Astoria Cat Rescue offers information on how to get involved in the effort to shelter and forever home kitties in need.
Open Streets offers opportunities for activism, political involvement, and mutual aid. Indivisible Western Queens offers information about protecting our democracy and standing advocating for New Yorkers. Several groups host meet ups, clothing & book swaps, food distribution, self-defense/upstander training, and know your rights training. They also provide direct support to displaced families through mutual aid.
During this time of collective grief, political violence, and growing uncertainty, it can feel overwhelming to know how to take action. But the beauty of Open Streets is how resistance is scaled down to be local and tangible. Whether it’s tabling, offering a free workshop, sharing food, or simply choosing to spend a Saturday in community rather than in isolation, Open Streets make space for everyday acts of solidarity. They remind us that joy and justice are not separate, but deeply intertwined.
Looking Ahead
While successful open streets sites remain in place, the scale of the Open Streets program has shrunk significantly due to underfunding and poor management. NYC Comptroller Brad Lander warns that further cuts to the Open Streets program could put the program at risk. Reforms are needed such as increased funding, stronger technical support for organizers, and expanded access across all neighborhoods.