The City of Hoboken will close multiple roads along Jefferson Street this weekend to promote social distancing as part of a pilot program that has the potential to expand.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
The opening will serve as a pilot, which if successful, could be repeated or expanded in the future. Jefferson Street, between 3rd and 11th Streets, will be closed to vehicular traffic this Saturday and Sunday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
The purpose is to provide pedestrians and cyclists room to maintain proper social distancing and alleviate overcrowding in other public spaces.
“We are pleased to open up Jefferson Street to Hoboken residents to help facilitate social distancing,†Mayor Ravi Bhalla said in a statement.
“This space will help reduce the stress in our parks and waterfront, with the goal of making it safer for outdoor activity with the warmer weather. While we continue to advocate for residents to stay at home whenever practically possible, I recognize the mental health benefits of fresh air and outdoor space, and I’m confident this space will promote responsible outdoor activity.â€
The Hoboken Police Department will be dedicating approximately five Traffic Control Officers (TCOs) to Jefferson Street to assist residents who need to access their vehicles or enter their garages.
Congregation will be strictly prohibited and face masks are encouraged at all times.
The new comes shortly after the city announced that a significant number of their parks will reopen tomorrow.