Prospect Park To Go Entirely Car-Free This Summer

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Mayor Bill de Blasio has announced that Brooklyn's Prospect Park will go completely car-free for the first time this summer.

Starting next Monday and continuing through the weekend after Labor Day, the East Drive from Park Circle to Grand Army Plaza, which is normally open to cars during the weekday rush, will be closed to traffic.

"From getting married there to being a little-league parent inside Prospect Park, I can attest that it is a cool, even magical refuge this time of year," said de Blasio.  "A safer and quieter park improves the safety and enjoyment for thousands of park users. "

"Cyclists, joggers and pedestrians, young and old, can rejoice during these next couple warmer months in a safer and quieter park," said Department of Transportation Commissioner Polly Trottenberg.

As WCBS 880's Alex Silverman reported, the change is not as big as it might sound. The West Drive in Prospect Park has been car-free for two years, and vehicles are only now allowed on the East Drive between 7 a.m. and 9 a .m. on weekdays.

John Boyd said he was grateful for the change.

"Very good," he said. "People have more room to walk and enjoy the good light, enjoy summer."

The Department of Transportation doesn't expect the move to impact traffic significantly because of the lower volume during the summer months.