Certain blocks closed to vehicular traffic to create pedestrian malls
NORTH BERGEN, NJ – More than 40 local restaurants and dining establishments have participated in the “Eat & Shop Local” initiative created by Mayor Nicholas Sacco, the Board of Commissioners, and Freeholder Anthony Vainieri to help local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Originally scheduled to run through August, the program has been extended into September due to popular demand.
After a weekend off for Labor Day, the program will continue to close certain blocks to vehicular traffic on weekends to create pedestrian malls, allowing restaurants and businesses to expand into the street to serve customers.
Residents and visitors have eagerly taken advantage of the program every weekend, with many people returning regularly as the program moves from one location to another, highlighting a new selection of international restaurants and fine cuisine each week.
“Eat & Shop Local was created by the township to help our local business that suffered significant losses as a result of the pandemic,” said Mayor Sacco. “I’m deeply grateful to everyone who came out to support our neighborhood restaurants and business owners. It’s been wonderful to see everyone enjoying this opportunity to get outside and sample our many delicious dining options while maintaining safe social distancing. I hope to see even more friends and neighbors during round two in September.”
Streets will be closed to traffic from 3 p.m. Friday until 10 p.m. Saturday as follows:
- Sept. 11-13: Broadway
- Sept. 18-21: Bergenline between 76th & 82nd*
- Sept. 25-27: Bergenline between 70th & 76th Streets
*Of special note, on Saturday, Sept. 19, Eat & Shop Local will take place in conjunction with the annual Classic Car Show, spanning from 79th to 85th Streets on Bergenline Avenue.
All patrons should remember to wear a mask and practice social distancing when possible.
