The Falls Church Department of Public Works is considering a new program similar to block party street closure permits that it is calling Play Streets. According to a City of Falls Church press release, a Play Street permit closes a neighborhood street to traffic so that kids and adults can have more space for play and physical activity.

The City has invited the public to attend a pilot Play Street event from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. this Saturday, May 14, at N. Virginia Ave. and Riley Street. At 11 a.m., Virgil Sea Sports and Activities will provide directed play and at 12:30 p.m. Prophetic Dance and Fitness will lead a group activity. For the event, parking is prohibited on N. Virginia and Riley, except for residents of those streets. The City has not yet determined all the rules and regulations for Play Streets, although the process will likely be similar to Block Party Permits, which has limits on the duration, frequency and location of the event. There will also likely be requirements for adults to stand at the barricade to allow access to residents and emergency vehicles. Barricades will be provided by the residents and could be trash cans or something else that could be moved easily.

Part of the pilot event is to determine what is needed for the permit process.