Open Road - Community Pedestrian & Bike Event

Open Road in Union Township, NJ — June 2026 & September 2026

The Township of Union hosts Open Road, a simple but transformative idea: close a mile of public streets and parks, remove the cars, and let neighbors move through the space on their own terms. Whether you walk, bike, skateboard, or push a stroller, the street belongs to you for two hours. Union County Life covered the event last year, and participants returned for the chance to move freely through their own neighborhood.

Open Road is for anyone. Families with young kids can walk at their own pace. Older residents get a chance to move without traffic worry. The Be Running Club meets during the event, so runners show up to meet others moving the same way. Dogs are welcome too—just keep them leashed.

The event transforms one mile of Union Township streets into what you'll see elsewhere on Sundays in Manhattan or Philadelphia: a place for walking, talking, playing. There's room to move at your own speed. If you live on the route, police escorts can help you get to and from your home; just flag down a volunteer at the nearest intersection.

Dates: Sunday, June 28, 9am to 11am and Sunday, September 20, 9am to 11am. The event is free. No registration required. Parking is available on the corner of Liberty Avenue and Rahway Avenue, though the township encourages biking, walking, or skating to the event. Disabled parking is available outside the event route boundaries.

For more details, call the Township of Union at 908-688-2800 or visit uniontownship.com. Find more Union Township events, businesses, and local news on Union County Life.

Can I bring my dog to Open Road?
Yes. Pets are welcome, but they must be leashed at all times for everyone's safety.

Where should I park for Open Road?
The township recommends biking, walking, or skating to the event. If you drive, use the parking lot at the corner of Liberty Avenue and Rahway Avenue. Street parking is allowed outside the route, but watch for "No Parking" signs. Disabled parking is available outside event route boundaries.

I live on the street that closes for Open Road. Can I still get in and out of my house?
Yes. Residents can come and go, but the township asks you to limit car trips if possible. If you need to leave by car, flag down a volunteer at the nearest intersection and they'll escort you. Please drive at a walking pace so the volunteer can walk safely with you. Drivers must take the first chance to turn off the route.

What can I do at Open Road?
Walk, bike, skateboard, run, play, or socialize. The Be Running Club meets during the event if you'd like to join other runners. The goal is to use public space without car traffic.