Peekskill extends Esther Street pedestrian plaza through 2026; staff to study permanent design

The Peekskill Common Council unanimously approved Resolution J6 on Jan. 12 to extend the temporary closure of Esther Street — known in public discussion as Esther Place — through Dec. 31, 2026, continuing its use as a public outdoor plaza.

Carol Samuel told council members the city is proposing to keep Esther Street closed for another year while the forthcoming Safe Streets for All study evaluates downtown traffic and stakeholder concerns. "We are proposing to keep it closed for the year," Samuel said, noting that two recently opened businesses on Esther told staff they support the closure while one asked for more monitoring and for loading and lighting to be addressed in a final design.

During public comment, Jen Zawrocki of Peekskill Walk urged the council to make the plaza permanent and cited a 2023 citywide survey that, she said, drew more than 850 responses with 92% of respondents favoring a permanent Esther Place. Council members said staff already had spoken with business owners and will consider those concerns as part of detailed design and maintenance planning.

The extension allows the city to pursue grants and streetscape improvements for activation and maintenance while the larger Safe Streets for All traffic-safety project proceeds.