First-Ever Bedford Avenue Closure Brings Safer Yom Tov for Families

Williamsburg – A first-time safety initiative to close Bedford Avenue on the first night of Rosh Hashana has been met with overwhelming praise from community residents, who described the effort as a major success.

On Monday night, from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM, the NYPD 90th Precinct, in coordination with the Williamsburg Jewish Community Council (WJCC) and the Shomrim Shabbos Patrol, shut down Bedford Avenue between Flushing Avenue and Division Avenue. The closure allowed thousands of families to walk safely as they visited rebbes and relatives with New Year’s greetings of “L’shonah Tovah.”

In past years, the heavy mix of vehicles and large crowds created dangerous conditions, with several near-accidents reported. This year, community residents said the closure transformed the experience.

“It was a smashing success,” said one longtime resident. “The atmosphere was safe and calm. Families could enjoy the night without worrying about cars speeding through.”

Community leaders credited the smooth coordination between NYPD, WJCC, and Shomrim for making the operation seamless.

“This initiative was about putting safety first,” said Rabbi Moishe Indig of the WJCC. “The feedback from residents has been tremendous, and we hope to continue this in future years. Let’s also give a big thank you to Shomrim for their massive work operation in making this project possible.”

The initiative marks the first-ever closure of Bedford Avenue on Rosh Hashana night, setting what many hope will become a new standard for ensuring safety and peace of mind for Williamsburg families during Yom Tov.