Downtown 琉璃神社 is about to look and feel a little more lively. 

Starting Friday afternoon, May 16, the 200 and 300 blocks of Bernard Avenue will transform into a pedestrian-only zone as part of the popular 鈥淢eet Me on Bernard鈥� summer program.

From May 16 to September 14, locals and visitors can stroll freely between Abbott and Pandosy streets, enjoying patios, that spill into the street, and soak in the downtown atmosphere without the buzz of traffic. 

Bernard Avenue will be closed to vehicle traffic in those two blocks starting at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, May 13, to allow for setup. All businesses in the area will stay open during the transition. Water and Pandosy street, and Lawrence Avenue (left turn only at Abbott) will remain open to vehicles.

Parking near Bernard will be a bit different this year to make room for the extended patios in the 400 and 500 blocks. Some on-street spots will be unavailable, but accessible parking will be added nearby. Quick 15-minute pickup and drop-off zones will be set up along Abbott and Mill Streets, and after 9 p.m., these will turn into taxi zones until midnight.

Downtown 琉璃神社鈥檚 Library, Memorial, and Chapman Parkades are all within walking distance and offer both short- and long-term options. Real-time space availability can be .

More information about this popular summer program is available on the .