New Brunswick NJ George Street pedestrian plaza plan discussed

NEW BRUNSWICK – Could George Street between Bayard and Albany streets become a permanent pedestrian mall, offering outdoor dining, performances and festivals?

And if so, what would the impact be on traffic, emergency vehicle access, NJ Transit and Rutgers University bus routes, as well as parking and garbage and recycling collections?

City Council members began discussions on the idea Wednesday following an impact study presentation by Hasbrouck Heights-based DMR Architects. One design option calls for the conversion of George Street into a pedestrian mall that features year-round activity, possibly including outdoor ice skating.

It’s unclear if a timeframe has been set for a decision to be made on the proposal.  

Closing the three-block area to vehicle traffic was first explored during the COVID pandemic to allow restaurants to safely stay open with outdoor dining in an area that could also host art shows, football watch parties and live music.

Local:New Brunswick approves high-rise, but there might be a legal hurdle