The second Irvine Annual Street Shutdown on May 3 closed Campus Drive and University drive from 11am to 4pm, working to connect the community through a celebration of local businesses and art. The event allowed people to experience the typically busy streets in a new car-free way such as skating, biking and walking, allowing more opportunities to socialize and build community, according to CicloIrvine.
Through the support of UC Irvine, UCI Health and other organizations, Irvine was able to create an event filled with entertainment and exercise for attendees.
“I think this is great to bring the community together and also to get people out and active, especially on a day like today, when it’s beautiful,” medic Heidi Ruff said. “[One] thing almost everyone said was that it was so fun to see this really busy street close down and everybody walking and biking on it. All the people [are] coming out and just having a ton of fun, everybody’s had smiles on their faces.”
UCI student Paula Rodriquez enjoyed seeing the community brought together through the event. The event is a once-in-a-year opportunity to come outside and enjoy the weather, be with family and do some physical activity, according to volunteers present.
“I think it’s important to let people know the importance of riding bikes or non-cars,” Rodriguez said. “Because I do believe in global warming, so I believe that’s a huge issue that needs to be figured out somehow.”
Open streets can reduce pollution caused by cars and encourage healthy activities and social interaction through street festivals, special events and block parties. These events have a positive impact on mental health as they encourage socialization and physical fitness, benefitting people of all ages, according to the National Park Service.
The next annual street shutdown hosted by the city of Irvine will be on May 3, 2026, preceded by a Studio Arts Festival in Heritage Community Park on June 7, continuing to connect the community through engaging activity.
