Car-Free Newbury Street A Hit With Crowds

BOSTON (CBS) -- It's not everyday that Newbury Street in Boston looks and sounds like a quiet suburban neighborhood.

On Sunday there were no horns honking, or car-crowded curbs. All day, from 8 am to 7 p.m., Newbury Street was car free. The day was called, Open Newbury Street.

It's a new initiative the city is trying out for one day to turn this typically heavily trafficked street into a pedestrian-only walkway. It gives people and pets to casually roam, walk, or scoot their way around without the worry of cars getting in the way. It also gives merchants the chance to bring their stores to the streets and offering great deals.

"It's a great way to showcase our city. And there will be a lot of spill over and businesses on Boylston Street will benefit from it as well," Boston Mayor Marty Walsh said. Mayor Marty Walsh traded in his suit and shoes for a polo cargo pants and sneakers.

"I think our neighborhood is excited for this and I think the city should keep this going twice a year," Lit Boutique shop owner Lisa Shah said.

For Title Boxing Club owner, Cam Andrews, an open Newbury Street is key for new clients.

"It brings more people out people to get to touch and feel more places," Andrews said.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Karyn Regal reports