Open Road in Union Township, NJ — September 2026
Open Road is the Township of Union's reimagining of shared public space. For two hours one Sunday morning, a mile of streets and parks become places where cars pause and people take over. You'll see neighbors you never knew, kids testing new skills, dogs on leashes, skateboarders, and people moving through their own township as if they truly own it.
The event is for everyone: families with young children, teenagers, older adults, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone curious about what a walkable neighborhood feels like. It's free and low-pressure. Bring a bike or walk. Skateboard. Stretch. Sit and watch. You belong here.
What to expect: wide open streets, the Be Running Club in motion, neighbors gathered in spaces usually marked for cars, and a sense of possibility. Bring water, sunscreen, and energy. The Union Police Department will manage intersections and keep everyone safe. If you live on the route, police will escort you in and out by car if needed.
The event runs Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 9am to 11am. The exact streets are not specified in available source material (⚠️ see verification note). Admission is free. No registration required. For parking, Union Township encourages walking, biking, or skating to the event. A parking lot is available at the corner of Liberty and Rahway Avenues. Pets must be leashed.
For more details, contact Union Township at 908-688-2800 or visit their events page. Find more Union
Township events, businesses, and local news on Union County Life.
FAQ
Can I bring my dog to Open Road?
Yes. All pets are welcome, but they must be leashed at all times.
What if I live on the route during the street closure?
The Union Police Department will escort you in and out by car. Flag down a volunteer at the nearest intersection when you're ready to leave. Please drive at walking pace so the volunteer can safely accompany you. Drivers must take the first available turn off the route.
Where should I park for the event?
Union Township encourages you to walk, bike, or skate to Open Road. If you drive, parking is available at the corner of Liberty and Rahway Avenues. Street parking outside the event route is also available, but watch for no-parking signs. Accessible parking is available outside event boundaries.
What if I've never done this before?
Open Road is designed for everyone at all skill levels. You can walk, bike, skateboard, or just sit and watch. There's no pressure to be athletic or organized. Just show up and see what happens.
