D.C. residents took to the streets—sans vehicles—yesterday for Open Streets 7th Street NW, a community event hosted by Mayor Muriel Bowser and the District Department of Transportation. According to the official announcement, a more than one-mile stretch of 7th Street NW was transformed into a pedestrian paradise from Rhode Island Avenue to E Street NW, providing a car-free corridor from 9 am to 3 pm.
In what has become a yearly tradition, Open Streets aims to actively rebuild the community's approach to public spaces. As Mayor Bowser articulated, "Open Streets is about coming together as a community, staying active, supporting our local businesses, and reimagining how we use public space." This sentiment was echoed by the DDOT Director Sharon Kershbaum, who highlighted the event is a chance for residents to safely freely move and enjoy the city in different ways, as reported by the DDOT official website.
Local businesses, community organizations, and government agencies rolled out a variety of activities, such as fitness classes, live music, and street art projects specifically designed to engage participants of all ages. Despite the weather forecast, the DDOT Director assured that "Rain or shine, Open Streets 7th Street NW will go on, and all are welcome," as mentioned in the official announcement.
DDOT used this event not only to encourage residents to adopt alternative transportation but also to celebrate transportation equity. A bike giveaway was held, where 51 bikes were available as a result of Mayor Bowser's commitment to transportation equity. Interested parties were able to sign up at the Bike Giveaway Tent at L Street NW for their chance to claim any unclaimed bicycles after 2 pm, with winners of the initial raffle announced the day before the event via email.
