Boston to celebrate 'Open Canal Street' on July 8

During the afternoon, the West End's two-block Canal Street will shut down to vehicles, and open up for pedestrians.

Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced Boston will celebrate "Open Canal Street" on Saturday, July 8, 2017. For the afternoon, the West End's two-block Canal Street will shut down to vehicles, and open up for pedestrians, who will be able to shop, dine and enjoy the atmosphere of Boston's West End.

"With the success and excitement that came from Open Newbury, we are thrilled to expand this pilot to Canal Street for one day this summer," said Mayor Walsh. "I'm excited for businesses, residents and visitors to come together to celebrate and enjoy this pedestrian-focused event, and I welcome all to Open Canal Street on July 8th."

"We are in process of working with area businesses and residents to plan what we hope will be a great event and an opportunity to showcase all of the great things happening in the area," said Jay Walsh, Executive Director of the Downtown North Association. "We are extremely grateful to Mayor Walsh and the City of Boston to extend the open streets initiative to our neighborhood."

Canal Street is also part of the Boston Planning and Development Agency's North Station Area Mobility Plan, which in connection with the Boston Transportation Department will develop near-term, multimodal transportation improvements in the areas immediately adjacent to North Station.

As July 8th approaches, the Boston Transportation Department will issue an advisory regarding the Open Canal Street event. Visitors are encouraged to encouraged to utilize public transit the day of the event.