ENGAGE, ACTIVATE, AND PLAY AWAY!
Play Streets Macon is a community-driven initiative where neighbors come together, agreeing to open their streets for play and community while closing them to through traffic. In collaboration with Bike Walk Macon, we'll work alongside residents to bring a day filled with fun, play, and connection to your neighborhood. Inspired by the popular Open Streets Macon initiative, our mission is to support residents in shaping and enjoying their own streets as vibrant and family-friendly spaces. Join us in transforming your streets and be part of this memorable experience!
Announcing the four neighborhoods that were selected for the 2023 Play Streets Macon initiative!
We are thrilled to announce the four neighborhoods that have been selected to participate in our newest initiative: Play Streets Macon. We look forward to working with these residents and partners to transform their streets into vibrant spaces for play!
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING Neighborhood Champions and their selected streets!
Date: Sunday, August 27, 2023 | 2-5 PM
Location: MLK Small + Minority Business District in Historic Greenwood Bottom - See Map
Neighborhood Champion: Asha Ellen, Keep Macon-Bibb Beautiful
More Event Details: Click here
Date: Saturday, October 7, 2023 | 2-5 PM
Location: Main Street in East Macon - See Map
Neighborhood Champion: Julia Morrison, The Bicentennial Commission for Macon200
More Event Details: Click here
Date: Friday, November 3, 2023 | 6-9 PM
Location: Second Street + Cherry Street in Downtown Macon - See Map
Neighborhood Champion: Emily Hopkins, Main Street Macon
More Event Details: Click here
Date: Saturday, December 9, 2023 | 1-4 PM
Location: Lawton Road in West Macon - See Map
Neighborhood Champion: Char Lockett, The Bellevue Neighborhood
More Event Details: Click here
WHAT IS PLAY STREETS?
A Play Street is a designated area where neighbors agree to temporarily close their street to through traffic, creating a safe space for play, community interaction, and socializing. It allows residents to reclaim their street for recreational activities, fostering a sense of togetherness and fun.
what to do at play streets
During Play Streets, people participate in a variety of activities such as sidewalk chalk art, bike riding, roller skating, hopscotch, ball games, and other creative games. Neighbors can organize a potluck or fire up the grill and community organizations often offer interactive workshops, music, and entertainment to enhance the joyful atmosphere and encourage social connections among neighbors.
how it works
With guidance from Bike Walk Macon, Play Streets Macon participants legally close the road to through-traffic using authorized signage, cones, or barriers. Vehicle access is maintained for residents to be able to park on the road. Volunteer stewards, often residents themselves, ensure safety by standing at each street end and guiding vehicles as needed.
who is invited
Play Streets are open to all residents of the neighborhood, regardless of age or background. It encourages active participation from families, children, adults, and seniors alike. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun, fostering a sense of inclusivity and community engagement.
READY TO NOMINATE YOUR STREET?
Nominations are closed and the 2023 awardees have been selected! Be on the lookout for an announcement soon!
Get ready to transform your street into an epic Play Streets experience! Discover all the exciting details and nominate your street by visiting our nomination form. If selected, you'll receive guidance, coordination, and support from Bike Walk Macon, backed by funding for permits, traffic control, outreach materials, programming, play materials, and signage.
