The King Street Pedestrian Zone’s expansion to the 200 block opened today in Old Town.
The expansion is currently in a pilot stage. The first phase started today (Nov. 22) and will run through Jan. 6.
“During this period, residents and visitors can enjoy a lively, welcoming walking area, enhanced by the holiday atmosphere,” the city said in a release. “After Phase 1, the block will reopen in January and February to address any issues.”
Phase 2 will kick off in March and run through September.
“This extended period will allow for additional community engagement and data collection,” the release said. “Based on the outcomes of the pilot, the City Council will consider a permanent walk zone ordinance in the fall of 2025.”
The City Council tested out the King Street Pedestrian Zone during Covid (though planning started before the pandemic) and made it permanent on the 100 and unit blocks of King Street and Strand Street in 2022.
Pedestrianizing the 200 block was considered a little trickier trickier given the street’s elevation and the mixed feelings of some local businesses, but the City Council voted unanimously this weekend to move forward with the pilot.
Feedback on the pedestrian zone can be shared online.
