Reopened after 58 years: Columbus Avenue between Church Street South and South Orange Street!

After being closed for 58 years, the portion of Columbus Avenue located between Church Street and South Orange Street has officially opened to traffic. This evening’s commute (Friday, May 28) will be the first time its open to traffic. 

The newly opened street has been designed for use by pedestrians and bicyclists as well as slower speed motor vehicles. This permanent reopening of this portion of Columbus Avenue will provide a direct connection between Union Station and Church Street South in the Hill neighborhood.

The reopening of this portion of Columbus Avenue is also anticipated to help reduce traffic congestion when South Frontage Road between College and Church Streets closes next week to accommodate Downtown Crossing Phase 3 construction, allowing commuters to easily access South Frontage Road, a major outbound route to I91/I95, at South Orange Street while bypassing the closed portion of South Frontage Road. 

The reopening of this portion of Columbus Avenue is not a formal part of New Haven’s Downtown Crossing project, but is directly aligned with Downtown Crossing’s goals of reconnecting New Haven’s neighborhoods--and the urban street grid--for use by pedestrians and bicyclists in addition to slower speed motor vehicle traffic.

The newly open portion of Columbus Avenue can be accessed via Church Street or South Orange Street.

Just over two weeks ago, the community gathered to celebrate the upcoming reopening of a portion of Columbus Avenue. In case you missed the event, read about it here in coverage by the New Haven Independent.

A rendering of the streetscape, which includes a two-way off-street bike path, is included below. 

Better yet, check out the new street in person--walk, bike, or drive over!