Take over the street: Meet Me on Bernard is here

“Summer’s here and the time is right for dancing in the street,” sang Martha and the Vandellas, as well as David Bowie and Mick Jagger, among others.

And if dancing in the middle of the road downtown isn’t quite your scene...although who's going to stop you... walking and cycling is certainly the in thing right through till September. That's because Meet me on Bernard has got underway.

The extended patios are out as the 200 block of Bernard Avenue becomes a key destination to soak up a glorious post-COVID summer downtown, day or night.

Games, concerts, classes, and more will be held for more than three months as the city gives the downtown core a festive boost, with food and drink and plenty of shopping options.

The stretch between Abbott and Water Street is a vehicle-free open pedestrian corridor until September 4.

And as of July 1, an additional block (300 block) opens to pedestrians and cyclists as well.

Bernard Avenue will remain open to vehicular traffic in the 400 and 500 blocks, except for special events.

Businesses in the 300 to 500 blocks who are participating in the Patio Program will take over parking spots and convert them into patios.

Meet me on Bernard is a collaborative initiative promoting vibrancy and connection in the downtown core.

Ryan from 104.7 The Lizard strutted his stuff and soaked up the early summer atmosphere.

Check out the video.