Mayor Michelle Wu, in collaboration with the Downtown North Association, has announced the revival of the Boston Playoff Hub on Canal Street, establishing a car-free zone for fans

to congregate before and during home playoff games at TD Garden. This initiative underscores Mayor Wu's dedication to reshaping Boston's streets and enhancing public spaces for the enjoyment of residents, small businesses, and visitors alike.

"We are excited to provide Boston fans with a safe opportunity to come together and support our beloved Bruins and Celtics during the playoffs this year," Mayor Michelle Wu remarked. "The return of the Playoff Hub reflects our commitment to fostering community spirit and backing our local businesses. I encourage everyone to join us before and during the playoff games to unite and rally behind our teams."

City Councilor Sharon Durkan of District 8 expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, "Encouraging local fans to patronize small businesses while celebrating Boston's legacy as the city of champions at the teams' doorstep is a fantastic endeavor! Our fans consistently show up for our iconic teams, so I eagerly anticipate participating in these festivities as we root for the Celtics and Bruins to achieve victory."

The Playoff Hub will be accessible to the public free of charge, offering ample space for residents and visitors to gather outdoors and show support for Boston's home teams. Canal Street will be closed starting at noon on game days and will reopen one hour after the game concludes. Parking regulations will be clearly indicated prior to the first Bruins playoff game on Saturday, April 20, with vehicles in violation subject to towing.

Segun Idowu, Chief of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion, expressed anticipation for the vibrancy and camaraderie Canal Street will foster, stating, "Activating this space will provide visitors and residents with the chance to bolster local businesses while rallying behind Boston's sports teams."

Glen Thornborough, president of TD Garden and COO of Boston Bruins, expressed gratitude for the initiative, remarking, "With both teams competing in the playoffs, this presents a wonderful opportunity for fans to assemble before games and extend the electrifying energy of TD Garden into the surrounding community."

Rich Gotham, President of the Boston Celtics, echoed this sentiment, stating, "There's an unparalleled atmosphere at TD Garden, especially on game days for the Celtics and Bruins. We extend our thanks to Mayor Wu and the City of Boston for reintroducing the Playoff Hub on Canal Street, providing fans with an outdoor space to continue supporting both teams and local businesses throughout the playoffs."

Jay Walsh, Executive Director of the Downtown North Association, conveyed excitement for the return of Canal Street as the Playoff Hub, expressing anticipation for the festive atmosphere it will create. Walsh also extended gratitude to Mayor Wu and emphasized the association's hopes for extended playoff runs for both teams.

The first Bruins playoff game is scheduled for Saturday, April 20, with the first Celtics playoff game following on Sunday, April 21. Photo by Office of Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker, Wikimedia commons.