Ever wanted an Open Street in your neighborhood? How about hosting a block party! And, it's easier than you think. Block parties- or, as we're calling them, Neighborhood Open Streets- are simple ways to bring safer walking, biking, and playing to your community. We say Open Streets are designed to stir the imagination, and remind us that our streets can have a multitude of uses- now it's even easier to achieve this in your neighborhood! 

We're here to help!

We've compiled a list of what you'll need and additional resources below. But we know, it's sometimes easier to talk things through. If you'd like to talk through your plans for your Neighborhood Open Street, schedule a 1-on-1 with Calah, our Open Streets Coordinator. 

What you'll need:

  1. An idea. Fall fest, game night, you name it - anything fun will do!
  2. A block - outside your house or apartment, church or community gathering spot, or favorite organization. 
  3. Friends to help you organize (and at least one emergency contact).
  4. Signatures from your neighbors. You need approval from two thirds- or 66%- of residents in neighborhood houses fronting the closure. 
  5. A block party permit. How-to is included below. 
  6. Traffic Control Plan - a simple map of your street that lays out where your barricades and signs will do.
  7. Barricades to close the streets. Cones, signs, and household items will work! In need of supplies? Walk Bike Nashville may be able to assist.
  8. Spread the word! You're hosting the coolest party in the neighborhood!

Resources 

Here are some resources to get you started:

Permit walkthrough video (6 minutes). Calah, our Open Streets Coordinator, talks you through the permit process.

(Note: this video is from September 2024, and some information may have been updated since recording. The most up-to-date Block Party information will be reflected in the above sections.)

Link to permit site. We recommend watching the walkthrough video (above) before starting your application. 

Signature sheet template. You can collect signatures this way, or on your phone or paper. As long as you get correct names and addresses and can connect it to your permit application, you're good-to-go.