Biking, skating and frolicking is about to get so much better in Prospect Park. From July 17 through September 11, the sprawling bucolic Brooklyn oasis will return to its 19th century origins as a car-free zone.
Starting next Monday, North-bound commuters will no longer be able to use the park's East Drive during rush hour to zoom to their destinations and will instead need to use alternate routes. The decision comes down from Mayor Bill de Blasio, who previously closed Prospect Park's West Drive to car traffic permanently back in June 2015.
"From getting married there to being a little-league parent inside Prospect Park, I can attest that it is a cool, even magical refuge this time of year,” de Blasio said in a statement. “As we already saw when we made the Prospect Park West Drive car-free two years ago, a safer and quieter park improves the safety and enjoyment for thousands of park users—and has a negligible effect on traffic outside the park.”
The streets will remain accessible for emergency and park services vehicles, but otherwise the car traffic will halt for two months. Grab your picnic blanket and favorite set of two-wheels (or two-wheels plus training wheels) and enjoy even fresher, fresh air and greater peace of mind about safety concerns while it last!
H/T: Curbed
For more fun ways to explore NYC this season, see our guide to the best things to do in Prospect Park, our list of top parks for kids and browse our other favorite outdoor activities for kids.