Bloomington: Kirkwood Program Update Headed to City Council on February 4

~ Bloomington Common Council to Receive Staff Update on 2026 Outdoor Dining Program and Future of Kirkwood Avenue

The Bloomington Common Council is set to receive a staff update from the City's Economic and Sustainable Development department at its upcoming meeting on Wednesday, February 4. The update will focus on the 2026 Outdoor Dining Program and the future of Kirkwood Avenue.

According to city staff, they are recommending that Kirkwood Avenue remain open to vehicular traffic year-round. This decision comes after a thorough review of multiple years of activity data, business feedback, and resident input on how Kirkwood has functioned under different models.

Despite a 57% increase in event activity and a 16% increase in program days, average daily visits to Kirkwood declined by 8% from 2024 to 2025. While major festivals consistently performed well, day-to-day activity outside of events was limited when the street was fully closed. Business feedback was evenly split on full street closure, while resident feedback supported a pedestrian-friendly Kirkwood but emphasized the need for better infrastructure, accessibility, and consistent activation.

More on Rezul News

• Outsports announces record-breaking number of LGBTQ+ athletes at 2026 Milan Winter Olympics
• Why Working with Amy Hansen, an Experienced St. George Real Estate Agent
• Titan Pressure Washing Launches "Pressure Washing Problems" Video Series with Episode 1 on Outlet Hazards and Gutter Backflow
• Sheffield Clinic Highlights Safe, Inclusive Laser Hair Removal While Improving Access
• Appliance EMT Partners with Kids Motel Ministry in Metro Atlanta

City staff have identified several challenges with the current full-closure model, including limited permanent infrastructure such as shade, seating, and ADA-accessible features. There is also an ongoing operational and staffing strain for City departments, complicated delivery and emergency access logistics, maintenance issues, public safety concerns during periods without programmed activity, and accessibility issues for customers, deliveries, and contractors.

Given these constraints and current budget realities, staff have concluded that keeping Kirkwood fully closed without permanent infrastructure and daily activation is not sustainable. As a result, the proposed 2026 program prioritizes enhanced parklets with improved accessibility and design, continued support for large downtown festivals, targeted small-scale activations in partnership with businesses, and preparation for a Kirkwood Corridor Study in 2027 focused on long-term safety and economic development.

The recommendations for the 2026 Outdoor Dining Program will be presented at the February 4 City Council meeting, followed by a review of updated parklet guidelines by the Board of Public Works. Work will also continue this year to prepare for the 2027 Kirkwood Corridor Study.

Residents are encouraged to attend or tune in to the February 4 Council meeting to learn more and follow the discussion. The updated agenda packets and documents can be found at bloomington.in.gov/council/meetings.

---

Show All News | Report Violation