Open Streets - Downtown Greensboro is an event that takes place every Saturday evening from 5pm to 10pm. It includes the participation of multiple restaurants and retailers on Elm Street with a road closing of vehicle traffic on the block of McGee and Washington Street to allow for pedestrian foot-traffic. 

A list of restaurants and retailers have been provided on the Downtown Greensboro website as the events have resumed recently.

Economic Impact

The City of Greensboro allowed for this in conjunction with these participating businesses in mid-August in wake of the COVID-19 crisis and the negative economic impact the pandemic has had on them. 

Business owners who have been more than worried about the future of their businesses have been able to better relieve the economic impact that put them into a chokehold. 

With restaurants opening, outdoor dining options as well as pickup and delivery have allowed small business owners to increase their patronage significantly as well. 

The Community

This event was put on hold during the winter months, which worried these businesses due to increasing cases in December, and has recently resumed as the warmer weather rolls in along with the decreasing new COVID-19 cases in Guilford County on top of the increase in vaccinations.

Regular customers who have avoided outings have had the opportunity to socially distance themselves while being in this public space, while also supporting these smaller businesses. 

Although alcohol sales are allowed at these participating restaurants, consumption of these beverages are not permitted in the pedestrian foot-traffic zone. 

In the Near Future

By the time the pandemic subsides, with many hoping by the end of the year or early 2022, the city is likely to continue this street closing for the greater economic success of Downtown Greensboro as well as the continued cooperation and growth of the surrounding community.