What is Atlanta Streets Alive about?
Our first Atlanta Streets Alive took place May 23, 2010 from 1-6 p.m. in downtown Atlanta. Road closures, totaling just under 2 miles, included Edgewood and Auburn Avenues. We held two events in 2010 and two in 2011, and are currently planning for 2012 on North Highland Ave for Sunday, May 20th!
Where did the idea originate?
Atlanta Streets Alive was inspired by the ciclovia in Bogotá, Colombia, where city streets are closed to car traffic to allow people to participate in all kinds of free health and community-oriented events. Thirty years after the first program, the concept has spread around the world from Tokyo, Japan to Kiev, Ukraine. Now we are bringing it to Atlanta!
How much does it cost?
Atlanta Streets Alive is absolutely free to all participants. Some will enjoy the route by bicycling, strolling, skating, or just people-watching. Others will participate in free group events such as tango, yoga, hula hooping, break dancing and other physical activities. These group events will be placed at spots along the route. Information on these activities will be posted on this website as the date draws nearer.
Who can participate? Do I have to sign up?
Atlanta-area residents of all ages, families, local businesses, and visitors are all invited to join the fun. Everyone is welcome, no sign-ups required. Participants will enjoy this unique opportunity to safely enjoy the streets and experience their city in a new way. We are working with a wide range of organizations in Atlanta to coordinate activities along the route that take into account the city’s incredible diversity. There will be something for everyone!
How will Atlanta Streets Alive impact city traffic?
Atlanta Streets Alive is held on Sunday afternoons, a time of the week with low auto traffic. We carefully selected this time to avoid overlap with other large events going on throughout the city, and to allow those who attend religious services on Sunday to participate.
Additionally, there will be “soft closures” with cross traffic allowed at a limited number of points along the route and auto access for residents and businesses located within the closed route. This type of closure has worked very well in other cities around the world. Traffic will be monitored and future events will reflect any needed changes.
Who will benefit?
Atlanta Streets Alive offers free and fun physical activity space to all Atlanta residents, and will provide open space in areas that have not been people-friendly in the past. Local businesses will benefit from increased pedestrian and bicycle traffic along commercial corridors. The event will provide a model of how cities can provide healthy, environmental friendly outdoor activities for their residents.
How can I get involved?
If you are interested in volunteering with this project, please fill out the Volunteer Sign-Up Form.
To add your activity to the event, please complete the free activity partner registration. If you have specific questions, email info@atlantabike.org or call (404) 881-1112.
