St. Louis Street Department Launches Open Streets Pilot Program to Create Welcoming Public Spaces for the Summer

Summer is a special time in St. Louis, and the City of St. Louis Street Department is launching a pilot program to help residents make the most of the warm weather. The Open Streets Pilot Program will allow businesses and neighborhood and community groups to transform underutilized streets or portions of streets into welcoming public spaces, closed to vehicles.

“In our busy lives, we may sometimes think of streets only as avenues for getting from one place to another,” said Mayor Cara Spencer. “But streets can be thriving parts of our neighborhoods when they’re open to people rather than just cars, so I am excited to see what St. Louisans do through this Open Streets Pilot Program to bring more life to our streets.”

The Open Streets Pilot Program is open to anyone who owns or represents property adjacent to an underutilized street, or is part of a nearby business or neighborhood improvement district or a nearby City-recognized non-profit community-based organization.

“Summer in St. Louis is a wonderful time to enjoy our urban setting outdoors - whether that’s heading out to meet with a neighbor or being part of a larger community gathering,” said James Jackson, Street Department director. “The Open Streets Pilot Program allows for places to sit, gather and relax. We look forward to Open Streets Plazas throughout the city this summer to serve as hubs for markets, performances and community events, helping to energize our neighborhoods and support local businesses.”

When considering applications for Open Streets Plazas, the Street Department will prioritize pedestrians, cyclists and community activities in locations where vehicle traffic can be safely redirected to effective alternate routes. Prime locations for these plazas are typically in active neighborhood areas where residents, businesses and visitors can gather for recreation, social interaction and local economic activity.

The pilot program has no specific eligibility criteria and welcomes applications for sites citywide. Three-month permits (May 29 through Aug. 31) will be processed by the Street Department. Permits for shorter periods of time may also be sought, as long as they fall within the same three-month window. The application process is now open, and applications are due by May 1.

Those participating in the program will be asked to provide feedback on the success and challenges of implementing an interim plaza, allowing the Street Department to evaluate potential future changes to these streets and the public right-of-way.

More information and a link to the application process can be found at our Open Streets Pilot Program website.