In summer 2012, T.A. helped spearhead Play Streets in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx. Of course, it's not as simple as just blocking off the street. In order to launch a Play Street, communities need to secure street closure permits, find community partners and obtain mini-grants to cover costs—the kinds of bureaucratic tasks that make most people's eyes glaze over. That's where T.A. comes in. They keep your eyes open and help facilitate the process.

If you're interested in bringing a Play Street to your neighborhood, T.A. is holding free info sessions about how to do it. These meetings will be held in four of the five boroughs (sorry Staten Island) over the next week, and are open to parents, organizers, community groups and individuals. See the schedule below.

Manhattan Play Streets Information Meeting
Monday, September 17 at 4-6pm
ICAHN Building, 1425 Madison Avenue at 98th Street, second floor, room L2-82

Brooklyn Play Streets Information Meeting
Tuesday, September 18 4-5:30pm
Brooklyn Public Library Pacific Branch, 25 Fourth Avenue at Pacific Street, second floor meeting room

Queens Play Streets Information Meeting
Thursday, September 20 3:30-5:30pm
Queens Central Library, 89-11 Merrick Boulevard between 89th and 90th Avenues

Bronx Play Streets Information Meeting
Monday, September 24 4-6pm
Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 Grand Concourse at East 165th Street

For more information, visit Transportation Alternatives website.