BLOOMINGTON — The City of Bloomington will close portions of Kirkwood Avenue to vehicle traffic beginning Friday, according to a news release.
The 300, 400 and 500 blocks will fully close, becoming pedestrian-friendly walking and dining spaces. The western half of the 100 block will close as well, but the 200 block will remain open.
A map of this year’s program is available on the city’s website.
The seasonal closure is a part of the city’s Outdoor Dining Program, which began in 2020 but was put on pause last year due to construction underneath Indiana Avenue.
City Council passed an ordinance in January to bring back the program and remove any restrictions on an end date. The program was previously on a year-to-year renewal process.
Nine business applied to participate this year. Five will turn the entire street into dining areas, while four others will set up parklets, which are placed in parking spots in front of the restaurants.
The city’s transportation plan from 2019 includes proposals to make Kirkwood a “shared street,” focusing on pedestrians and accessibility.
The closure will last through Nov. 10.
