RESIDENT INFORMATION

What is Open Streets Boise?

Hosted by the Boise Bicycle Project, Open Streets Boise temporarily transforms neighborhood streets into car-free community spaces where folks can bike, walk, and roll together. The initiative encourages active transportation, fosters community engagement, and highlights the importance of making streets safer and more accessible for everyone.

This year’s event is made possible with support from the City of Boise and in partnership with the Windstead Park Neighborhood Association. It will take place along Ustick Road in the Winstead Park Neighborhood between Mountain View Drive and Cole Road (to Acre Lane) on Sunday, September 28th, from 12 - 5 PM. This stretch will be fully closed to vehicle traffic, turning it into a safe, open space for all-ages community activities.

WHy Is Open Streets Boise Happening?

Open Streets Boise aims to:

  • Promote active transportation and healthier lifestyles.

  • Encourage community interaction and social cohesion.

  • Reimagine public spaces as community hubs, showcasing their potential beyond just serving cars.

  • Support local businesses by drawing residents and visitors to the area.

  • Raise awareness about road safety and the benefits of car-free zones.

Traffic & Parking

  • Ustick Road will be closed to through traffic from 8 am to 6 pm. The closed sections will include these intersections: Mountain View Dr and Ustick, Kelly and Ustick, Esquire and Ustick, Alamo and Ustick, Redway and UStick, and McKinney and Ustick. Detour routes will be clearly marked, and traffic control personnel will be on-site to assist with traffic management and ensure smooth detour flows.

  • Residents are encouraged to park their vehicles on side streets or in designated parking lots away from the event route. We recommend planning ahead to avoid any inconvenience. Temporary parking zones will be established and shared in further communications.

    • Access to homes within the event route will be restricted. If you need to drive during the event, we ask that you move your vehicle before the street closures begin. In case of emergencies or special circumstances, flaggers will be on hand to assist with vehicle movement. Please note that vehicular movement during the event will be limited and carefully managed to ensure the safety of participants.

    • If you need assistance moving your vehicle during the event please follow these steps:

      • Notify Boise Bicycle Project (BBP) staff or volunteers at the event or visit the info booth (this location will be added to the event map below before September).

      • BBP will send a team of flaggers to escort you off the route.

Event Participation

    • There are numerous ways to participate:

      • Join the Fun: Come out and enjoy the car-free street! Bring your family, friends, bikes, skateboards, or simply your walking shoes.

      • Host an Activity: Want to bring something special to the event? Set up a neighborhood activation like a lemonade stand, yard games, or a 'Chalk the Block' area. We encourage creative and interactive activities. Let us know you’re hosting an activity here.

      • Volunteer: We’re always looking for volunteers to help with setup, breakdown, and during the event. Tasks include assisting with traffic management, guiding participants, and more. Interested? Sign up here (sign-ups posted in August).

      • Spread the Word: Help us promote the event by sharing it with your neighbors, friends, and on social media.

  • No registration is required for attendees. Just come as you are and enjoy the day! However, if you’d like to host an activity, we ask that you sign up here so we can ensure everything is coordinated smoothly.

    • The event will feature a variety of activities, including:

      • Bike rides and skate zones

      • Live music and performances

      • Food trucks and local vendors

      • Family-friendly games and activities

      • Informational booths from local organizations

      • And much more!

Safety & Security

    • Safety is our top priority. Here are some of the measures we’ve put in place:

      • Traffic Control: Professional flaggers will be positioned at key intersections to manage traffic and guide any necessary vehicle movements.

      • First Aid: A first aid station will be set up along the route, staffed by trained medical personnel. Their location will be clearly marked on event maps.

      • Volunteer Support: Volunteers will be stationed throughout the event to assist participants, answer questions, and provide directions.

      • Emergency Notifications: We’re using the Pulse Point app to send out real-time notifications in case of emergencies. We encourage participants to download the app before the event.

    • In the unlikely event of an emergency:

      • On-Site Response: Trained first responders will be available on-site to address any immediate health or safety concerns.

      • Emergency Access: Emergency vehicles will have designated routes to access the event area quickly if needed. Our traffic control team will coordinate to clear paths as necessary.

      • Participant Instructions: Follow instructions from event staff and volunteers. In case of an evacuation, proceed calmly to the nearest exit or safe area as directed.

  • If you notice any safety concerns or issues, please notify the nearest volunteer or staff member immediately. You can also use the Pulse Point app to report emergencies. More information will be shared before September.

If you have any additional questions about the event, please contact the Boise Bicycle Project at openstreetsboise@boisebicycleproject.org.

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