Village of Yellow Springs, Ohio

  
The Community Space @ Short Street is a temporary public space created by closing Short Street to vehicle traffic from the Summer Street Fair on June 14, 2025, through the Fall Street Fair on October 11, 2025. This initiative aims to provide a pedestrian-friendly area that fosters community gatherings, supports local businesses, and enhances the vibrant downtown atmosphere. After the Fall Street Fair, the street will reopen to vehicles.
  
  
Frequently Asked Questions
  
Q: What features will the Community Space include?
A: The Community Space @ Short Street is designed to foster gathering and community 
engagement. It will include picnic tables for dining, benches for seating and conversation, a 20’ x 
20’ tent for shade, and hanging lights to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
  
Q: Where will public restrooms be available?
A: Portable restrooms will be conveniently located on the west side of the Community Space @ 
Short Street and available for public use throughout the duration of the project.
  
Q: What are the operating hours of the Community Space?
A: The Community Space @ Short Street is always open to the public. However, all activities 
within the space must comply with existing Village ordinances, including those related to noise, 
conduct, and safety. Please be respectful of nearby residents and businesses, especially during 
evening and nighttime hours.
  
Q: Will we lose accessible parking with the closure of Short Street?
A: No. While one accessible parking space will be removed from Short Street, it will be replaced 
with two new accessible spaces located on Xenia Avenue, directly in front of the US Bank.
  
Q: How will pedestrian safety be addressed?
A: Pedestrian safety is a top priority. Concrete barriers will be installed at both ends of the 
Community Space @ Short Street to fully restrict vehicle access during the project. This creates 
a safer, more comfortable environment for walking, socializing, and community activities.
  
Q: With Short Street closed to vehicles, will nearby parking lots or driveways be used as a cutthrough or replacement route?
A: No. The closure of Short Street is not intended to redirect vehicle traffic into nearby private 
lots or driveways. These areas remain private property and are not public rights of way or 
designated thoroughfares. Drivers should respect all posted signage and use only public streets 
and parking areas. Ensuring safe and appropriate access for local businesses, pedestrians, and 
residents is a key priority of this project.
  
Q: Have emergency services and nearby organizations been consulted?
A: Yes. Local emergency services have reviewed the pilot project and have expressed their full 
support. Additionally, the Yellow Springs Community Foundation, located at the corner of Short 
and Walnut Streets, endorses the initiative.
  
Q: Will there be bicycle parking?
A: Yes. Bike racks will be installed within the Community Space to encourage and accommodate 
cyclists.
  
Q: Will alcohol, smoking, or other activities be allowed?
A: Those in the Community Space must follow all existing public laws and regulations. This is 
NOT a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), so open container laws and other public 
ordinances still apply.
  
Q: What about music, noise, or street performers?
A: All activities in the Community Space must comply with existing Village ordinances, including 
those related to noise levels and busking.
  
Q: How will trash and recycling be managed?
A: Trash and recycling bins will be provided by Rumpke and will be emptied regularly to ensure 
the space remains clean, safe, and enjoyable for all.
  
Q: Can the space be reserved by community members or organizations?
A: In order to keep the Community Space @ Short Street open to all, we are currently not 
allowing reservations of the space.
  
Q: How can I share feedback on the Short Street project?
A: We welcome your input! For now, you can share your thoughts by emailing us at 
info@yellowsprings.gov. In the coming weeks, a community satisfaction survey will be available 
on the Village website, along with a QR code posted at the Community Space @ Short Street for 
easy access. Your feedback is important and will help guide the future of this project.