Mayor Walsh Orders Newbury Street Pedestrian-Only for One Day

Save the date.

For one day, one of Boston’s most popular thoroughfares will be reserved for people—and their four-legged companions, of course.

Mayor Marty Walsh announced plans Monday to transform Newbury Street into a pedestrian-only walkway on Sunday, August 7. The initiative, dubbed “Open Newbury Street,” hopes to increase foot traffic to the rows of shops and restaurants, while making the historic Back Bay boulevard a little safer for us bipeds.

“Open Newbury Street is an opportunity for our residents and visitors to enjoy everything Newbury Street has to offer without worrying about cars,” Walsh said in a statement. “We’ve received a large amount of positive feedback from the community, and have worked closely with businesses and residents to ensure the pedestrian-only street closure will positively impact the neighborhood’s residents and businesses.”

From 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on August 7, Newbury Street will be pedestrian-only between Massachusetts Avenue and Berkeley Street. Parking will be restricted at 8 a.m., and signs will be posted ahead of the change. City Hall is encouraging Newbury Street businesses to use the hashtag “#OpenNewbury” to give patrons a heads-up.