Open Streets Pilot Program

About the Program

The Open Streets Pilot Program allows businesses or neighborhood groups to transform underutilized streets or portions of streets into welcoming public spaces, closed to vehicles, using low-cost materials such as paint, movable planters, and seating.

Open Streets Plazas can range in complexity from removing a right-turn slip lane to fully closing a section of street to through traffic. These interim plazas also function as low-cost trials, allowing the City to evaluate potential permanent changes to streets and the public right of way.

Permanent projects can take years to realize. The Open Streets Pilot Program offers immediate places to sit, gather, eat, and relax while long-term plans move forward. Open Streets Plazas can serve as hubs for markets, performances, and community events, helping energize neighborhoods and support local businesses.

Eligibility

The pilot program has no specific eligibility criteria and welcomes applications for sites citywide. Anyone who is or represents an adjacent property owner(s), a nearby business or neighborhood improvement district, or a nearby city-recognized non-profit community-based organization can apply for an Open Streets Pilot Program permit.

Timeline

The Open Streets Pilot Program has a 3-month permit that will be processed by the Street Department. The application opens March 23rd, 2026 and applications are due April 17th, 2026. Interim plazas can begin installation on May 15th, 2026 and must be removed by August 16th, 2026. Applicants may agree to a shorter permit time frame, however it must fall within the same 3-month window as above.

Location Parameters

The ideal Open Streets Plaza prioritizes pedestrians, cyclists, and community activities in locations where vehicle traffic can be safely redirected to effective alternate routes. These plazas are typically located in active neighborhood areas where residents, businesses, and visitors can gather for recreation, social interaction, and local economic activity.

Certain sites or locations may be deemed ineligible for use as interim plazas due to safety, public health, or transportation considerations. The factors listed below will be evaluated when determining site eligibility:

• The location is required for essential traffic circulation;
• The proposed use would adversely impact fire lanes, access to fire hydrants, or emergency vehicle operations;
• The proposal would interfere with access to private property, including driveways, delivery areas, or loading zones;
• The site cannot maintain a required minimum clear path of travel for pedestrians and sidewalk users;
• The proposal would negatively impact public transit operations, including Metro Transit services;
• The use would facilitate a public or private nuisance or create undesirable neighborhood conditions, such as disorderly conduct, excessive noise, litter, or other issues reasonably related to public health, safety, or welfare;
• There is demonstrated opposition from a significant number of stakeholders, including but not limited to nearby property owners and or elected officials.

This list is not exhaustive. The City of St. Louis retains full authority, in its sole discretion, to deny applications for the Open Streets Pilot Program. If an application is denied, the City will provide an explanation of the decision and, where applicable, identify potential mitigation measures or conditions that could allow the site to become eligible.