Music, food, fun at first Smith Street ‘Open Streets’ event
Smith Street is “open” for business! The inaugural “Open Streets” event along Smith Street from Union to Wyckoff streets took place on Saturday, July 9 and featured outdoor dining, live music, promotional giveaways and information booths aplenty.
Local elected officials Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon and Councilmember Shahana Hanif enjoyed meeting constituents at their booths, and members of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce were on hand to spread the word about their ongoing efforts to boost business all summer long.
“The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce’s Neighborhood Economic Development division invests in neighborhoods through strategic long-term engagements that make commercial corridors cleaner, safer and more vibrant,” said Chamber Senior Director of Neighborhood Economic Development Saloni Sharma. “The launch of ‘Open Streets’ on Smith Street this weekend is a resounding success story of how the Brooklyn Chamber and its local partner — the Smith Street Alliance — brings together neighborhoods around shared, community experiences while promoting business activity in slower summer months. It is also the first time the 250-plus businesses on Smith Street have received this kind of support.”
Sharma and Chamber President Randy Peers walked along the route, visiting with merchants and guests throughout the day. On each block, crowds gathered at popular restaurants to enjoy a meal outside while bands performed acoustic songs. It was a taste of what’s to come on Smith Street this summer, as the “Open Streets” events continue every Saturday through Aug. 27, from noon to 10 p.m.
“We are grateful for DOT’s creative policymaking on the ‘Open Streets’ program,” Sharma said. “This event could not have been possible without the Smith Street Alliance — a woman-led effort to organize a Business Improvement District along Smith.”
Visitors can look forward to more music, dance performances and more involvement from Smith Street businesses as the events continue. Community newcomer DUMBO Market, for example, will host a special music and raffle event on July 30.
“Come join in the summer fun and celebration of community, family and culture,” Sharma said.
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