More and more cities are seeing the benefits of Open Streets. In 2007, there were less than 10 Open Streets initiatives around the United States. Now, there are over 100.

But what's all the hype about, anyway?

There are plenty of reasons to get excited about Open Streets. Here are ten reasons why Open Streets are awesome.

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1. Open Streets boost local economies.

There are plenty of studies that show how Open Streets help local businesses, and not just on the day of the initiative. Open Streets help people discover new stores and restaurants, and offer shops the chance to impress thousands of potential customers. 

2. Open Streets let you explore your city in a new way.

When else can you walk or bike down the middle of a street without having to worry about cars? Open Streets allow participants to leisurely stroll or ride through their community and discover buildings, neighborhoods and places that they’ve never noticed before. 

3. Open Streets attract new faces.

If you want to attract new members to your advocacy group, you have to start talking beyond the usual suspects. Open Streets draw participants from all parts of the community, and can attract people who don’t self-identify as cyclists. 

... Just be careful not to let any T-Rexes join the advocacy committee. 

4. Open Streets get people moving.

Open Streets make it easy for people of all ages and abilities to get up and move! You don’t need any fancy equipment, membership or trainers -- just two feet or a pair of wheels. 

At an Open Streets in Louisville, researchers found that half of participants were more physically active that day. 

5. Open Streets lower the barrier to biking.

Some people might be intimidated to ride on cities streets with traffic. Open Streets provide a safe space for people to ride -- and to learn just how easy it can be to get around their community on two wheels. 

6. Open Streets create new advocates for safer streets.

Once people see how quickly they can move about their city on a bike, they start pushing for more complete streets, trails and bike lanes. Open Streets initiatives are great ways to help advocates bring in new voices for better streets. 

7. Open Streets help advocates connect with new partners.

Looking to expand your network of organizations pushing for safer streets? Open Streets can open the door to new partners who might not be interested in talking about advocacy, but can see a benefit from supporting Open Streets.

For example, before Jackson Streets Alive, Bike Walk Mississippi reached out to a popular local coffee shop. The shop agreed to apply stickers about the initiative to all of their coffee cups – a great partnership. 

8. Open Streets are great for families.

The people powered pace of Open Streets are perfect for families. There is something to do for everyone, whether it is walking, riding a bike or participating in one of the many supporting activities. 

9. Open Streets are a great opportunity to strengthen ties with public officials.

Elected officials -- from the mayor's office to the state legislature all the way up to Congress -- love to be a part of great community programs. Holding a press conference before your initiative starts is a great chance to thank politicians and build relationships for future wins. 

10. They're fun!

There is nothing like the feeling of having the whole street open to biking and walking during an Open Streets initiative. It's so fun! 

Love Open Streets? It'd be great if you could share this.