Mayor Fulop has had second thoughts about the wisdom of routing automobile traffic across the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza, according to a source at City Hall.
Beginning Friday, the small section of Barrow Street running north from Christopher Columbus Drive to Newark Avenue and used by drivers to access the Pedestrian Plaza and Erie Street will close. This according to a notice from the Jersey City Department of Infrastructure disseminated yesterday.
The department is making the move “in an effort to further enhance the safety and experience along the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza and reduce pass-through traffic to the Holland Tunnel.”
Currently, drivers must zigzag their way across the raised plaza roadbed while steering clear of pedestrians and delivery trucks.
Ward E Councilman James Solomon said today that he supports the pilot, which is to last through August.
“While the closure remains in place, the Department of Infrastructure will evaluate the safety benefits and traffic conditions” said the city’s notice.
A “swing gate” has been installed across Barrow Street to accommodate emergency access and special events.
Going forward, says the city, drivers will be able to access Erie Street via Bay Street. Those with questions are advised to call the Division of Engineering at (201) 547-4411.