Allen Street in Hanover is transforming this summer! From June 26th to August 26th, 2024, experience the Allen Street Placemaking Pilot, an exciting initiative authorized by the Hanover Selectboard. Building upon the success of past “Block Party” events, this two-month pilot project will temporarily close Allen Street to vehicle traffic, creating a vibrant public space designed to foster community engagement, improve pedestrian safety, and boost local businesses.
This innovative Allen Street project will introduce public spaces for activities, expand outdoor dining options, and establish vendor spots, injecting new energy into the heart of Hanover. Throughout the pilot program, the Town will carefully monitor its impact on traffic, parking, and overall activity levels. The data collected will be crucial in making informed decisions about the future of Allen Street. This initiative is the result of collaborative efforts between Town officials and local business owners through the Downtown Working Group, ensuring a community-driven approach. Your feedback is invaluable – we encourage you to participate in the pilot and share your thoughts! Click here to take the survey.
Allen Street Placemaking Pilot: Proposed Layout
Get a sneak peek at the envisioned transformation of Allen Street! The proposed layout for the Placemaking Pilot showcases how the street will be reimagined as a pedestrian-focused zone. While some details are still being finalized, the core concept revolves around creating an inviting and accessible space for everyone to enjoy.
Image alt text: Aerial view concept drawing of the Allen Street Placemaking Pilot layout, showing pedestrian areas, vendor spaces, and outdoor dining.
Allen Street Summer Events: A Calendar of Community Fun
Allen Street will be buzzing with activity throughout the pilot! Check out the initial lineup of events planned for the summer. From fitness classes to live music and community gatherings, there’s something for everyone on Allen Street. Interested in hosting your own public event on Allen Street? Stay tuned – information on how to get involved will be available soon.
Kick-off Event: June 26 – Ice Cream Social
Mark your calendars! The Allen Street Pilot kicks off on June 26th with a celebratory Ice Cream Social hosted by Hanover Parks and Recreation (HPR). Enjoy complimentary chocolate and vanilla ice cream with toppings as we launch this exciting project.
Wellness on Allen Street: Qigong and Yoga Sessions
Embrace wellness in the open air with free fitness classes on Allen Street. Join HPR Instructor Natalie Jean for Qigong sessions on July 9th and July 17th, from 9:00-9:45 AM. Mighty Yoga will also host free Yoga on the Street lessons on July 11th and August 1st, from 9:15-10 AM.
Featured Events: The Prouty, HOP Season Launch, and Summer Block Party
Don’t miss these special events on Allen Street! The Prouty will collaborate with Sawtooth for a special event on July 13th. The HOP, in partnership with Sawtooth and Still North, will host their Season Launch Party on July 25th from 4-5:30 PM. Click here for Season Launch details!
The highlight of the summer will be the second annual Allen Street Summer Block Party on July 26th and 27th. Friday evening features live music presented by Sawtooth from 5-8 PM. Saturday is packed with family activities from 11 AM-2 PM, followed by a vibrant Salsa dancing celebration with a live band and dance lesson from 4-7 PM.
More Fitness and Community Events
Continue the fun with Zumba on the Street! Join HPR instructors Liz on August 9th (9:00-9:45 AM) and Jolin on August 22nd (1:00 PM) for energetic dance workouts. Spark! Community Center will host “Color the World” on August 17th from 10 AM-2 PM, inviting everyone to contribute to a large chalk mural on Allen Street, along with a quilt raffle. Enjoy live music hosted by Sawtooth featuring “High Summer” on August 23rd starting at 7 PM for an evening of music and outdoor dining.
Image alt text: Detailed view of Allen Street kiosk signs displaying information about local businesses and upcoming events, promoting Allen Street vendors and community activities.
Image alt text: Street-level perspective of Allen Street kiosk signs, showcasing wayfinding and information for visitors to Allen Street and highlighting local businesses.
Allen Street Pilot Survey: Your Voice Matters
The success of the Allen Street Placemaking Pilot depends on community feedback! Share your thoughts, opinions, and experiences throughout the summer by participating in our survey. Your input will directly shape future decisions regarding Allen Street. Access the survey here: link to the survey HERE.
Navigating Allen Street During the Pilot Program
Image alt text: Diagram illustrating vehicle navigation and alternative routes around Allen Street during the Placemaking Pilot road closure in Hanover.
Explore the Ordinances Behind the Allen Street Pilot
Interested in the official documentation? Learn more about the Town Ordinances enabling this pilot program:
Allen Street Temporary Closure Ordinance
Updates to Parking, Noise, and Parklet Ordinances
Pilot Presentation and Video Discussion
Delve deeper into the Allen Street Placemaking Pilot. Download the project presentation PDF here to understand its history and goals, or watch the video discussion here for further insights.
This Allen Street Placemaking Pilot was authorized by the Hanover Selectboard on May 6th, 2024.
