Notable Streets & Shopping

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A portion of Newark Avenue between Grove and Barrow has been closed off to automobile traffic since 2014, when it was turned into a pedestrian plaza by the Fulop administration. Since then, it has truly become a community gathering place, transforming this historic downtown area in the process. There are plenty of tables and restaurants on the avenue, as well as shops like Morlee’s shoe store, which carries brands such as Hunter, Sorel, and Vans.

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It’s common to see children riding on scooters, dogs being walked and couples meeting after work at Newark Ave. At 11pm, some of the places turn into night club venues with DJ’s playing live music. Check out Porta for late night drinks and a traditional Naples style wood fire oven pizza. With more establishments in the works, Newark Ave. is quickly becoming “restaurant row,” and almost anything the heart desires gastronomically can be found here.

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Art by Catherine Hart

Grove Street Path station plaza is at the head of the public promenade on Newark Ave. and there is usually some event happening: local bands playing music, a farmer’s market, or an arts festival going on in the summer and fall. The Artist and Maker Market has been a big hit in the historic downtown neighborhood since its inception in 2015. The open air baazar offers a place for micro-entrepreneurs to sell and show off their creations directly to the community. Modern consumers can have peace of mind that they are also buying locally made and/or sourced product from the actual makers.

The Market runs in conjunction with the Groove on Grove series of local artists performing live music. Starting May 3rd, they run most first and third Wednesdays of the month until September. See their website for a full schedule of events. The Historic Downtown farmers market offers a wide array of produce from local farms, prepared foods and goods from local businesses. It operates from May to December on Mondays and Thursdays (4-8pm). Located at Grove Path Station plaza.

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