October 7, 2016 - In This Issue:
A message from Mayor Steve Noble:
Dear Friends,

This week's issue offers a glimpse into some of the exciting work being done to create a new community space in the heart of Midtown Kingston. Driving down Broadway this week, you may notice some small improvements being made at what is now being called Broadway Commons (615 Broadway.) A few months ago, I was approached by members of the Midtown Arts District, who expressed a strong desire to create a public square as part of the establishment of the district. Nearly every study or plan dedicated to improving the quality of life and economic vitality of Midtown Kingston has cited the need for such a community space. So stay tuned for more exciting activity happening at Broadway Commons in the near future! 

This week's issue also includes information about three major festivals happening throughout our beautiful city this weekend. I urge each of you to consider joining me at these wonderful community gatherings. 

-Steve
Important Schedule Information

City Hall will be closed on Monday, October 10th in observance of Columbus Day. In addition, trash pick up will be delayed by one day.

The informational calendar outlining the refuse/recycling schedule can be found here.
Hokulea Voyaging Canoe Visits Kingston

The City of Kingston was recently paid a visit by the Hokulea Voyaging Canoe, which is visiting more than 100 ports and 27 nations on its 60,000-nautical mile worldwide voyage. Using Polynesian way-finding (navigating only by stars and other natural elements) the crew made its stop in Kingston last week. 
                                                                   
Safe travels!
City of Kingston Seeks Applicants for
Historic Landmarks Preservation Commission
Community members are encouraged to consider applying to Mayor Noble to fill vacant seats on the Historic Landmarks Preservation Commission. Applications can be found here.
Introducing:
Broadway Commons 

615 Broadway, a vacant city-owned lot in the center of Midtown Kingston, has sat idle for over four years. Mayor Noble is pleased to announce the city's efforts to transition this empty lot into a public square. The property, operating under the name Broadway Commons, will become a vibrant and active public space to be used for special events, cultural and community celebrations, and other gatherings. 

While the City has submitted a grant for consideration to support the goal of creating a public square, there are small improvements that can be made right now. The Department of Public Works has already made great progress by addressing issues such as repairing areas with uneven pavement and cutting back overgrown vegetation. 

Key to the success of this project will be working with community partners to ensure the public square is safe, accessible, attractive and welcoming. Members of the emerging  Midtown Arts District have been incredibly supportive of this effort and have planned for the 2 nd Annual Celebration of the Arts to be held at Broadway Commons on Thursday, October 27th at 5:30pm. For more information about this event, visit the Facebook event here.
Shuttle Services Expanded for Festival Weekend

Multiple shuttles will be running to ensure residents and visitors can access all of the fun events planned for the weekend. These shuttle services are free.

O+ Festival Services:
Two para-transit buses wrapped with the O+ banner will be providing continuous loops Friday evening, beginning at 7:00pm and ending at 12:30am, Saturday beginning at noon and ending at 12:30am, and Sunday beginning at Noon and ending at 4:00pm. The shuttle will loop throughout the Stockade District, in Midtown, and will travel Downtown a number of times each evening. It will also provide drop off services at the Best Western hotel in the evenings. The shuttle can be flagged along the route.  

Italian Festival Services:
The trolley will be used to provide shuttle services for the Italian Festival this Sunday. The shuttle will pick up at designated parking areas, including the Hannaford Plaza, Cornell St. lot, and Kingston Point Beach. The shuttle will drop riders off near the festival at the corner of Abeel and Broadway, as well as under the bridge by the Maritime Museum. 
This Weekend in Kingston
Stay up to date with 
Kingston Happenings

The City of Kingston often receives requests to share upcoming events happening in our community. Our partners at KingstonHappenings.org do an excellent job of centralizing this community information. So while our website is the best resource to gain information about City of Kingston sponsored events and important municipal information, Kingston Happenings can give you a greater preview of community events. Check them out today!
Sent on behalf of:
Mayor Steven T. Noble
845.334.3902
[email protected]

The purpose of this newsletter is to share important information, project updates, pictures and news from the City of Kingston. For more detailed information, visit: