Board OKs street closure for annual $2 tour, staff to process community block-party permit

The Muncie City Board of Public Works and Safety on July 8 approved a street-closure application for the annual two-hour "$2 tour," allowing the organizers to extend the route this year to include Martin Street in order to strengthen the connection between Ball State's campus and the village.

"So we are here submitting our yearly request for street closure for the 2 hour tour," Heather Williams said. She told the board the only change this year was the extension to Martin Street to create "a more clear connection between campus and the village," and that organizers were coordinating with Ball State police and fire officials. The board confirmed that all required paperwork and sign-offs from the Ball State police chief and the fire chief were in order before approving the application.

Separately, Melvin Kelly, executive director of Brothers 2 Brothers, asked to close a block on 5th Street between Elm and Jefferson on Aug. 8 for a back-to-school community event that would include bouncy houses and food. The board explained the permit process and referred Kelly to staff member Lacey to complete and submit the necessary documents; the chair indicated the board could likely finalize the request administratively once paperwork and approvals are completed.

Next steps: Organizers will complete the paperwork and the city will secure required sign-offs from police and fire officials before street closures are finalized.