Newark, NJ — Drivers in Newark should prepare for temporary road closures and traffic delays next week as the city hosts a Drive Up and Go Food Distribution event aimed at providing food assistance to residents.
Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda Sr. announced that several streets near Porter Place and Stengel Avenue will close on Wednesday, June 3, to accommodate the distribution operation. The event is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m., but road closures will be in effect for several hours beforehand and afterward.
Streets to Close for Food Distribution
According to the Newark Department of Public Safety, the following roads will be closed from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday:
- Stengel Avenue between Hunterdon Street and Elizabeth Avenue
- Porter Place between Porter Avenue and Stengel Avenue
The food distribution site will be located at the intersection of Porter Place and Stengel Avenue.
City officials expect increased traffic in the area as residents arrive to receive food assistance.
Drivers Urged to Plan Ahead
Motorists traveling through the South Ward area during the closure period are encouraged to use alternate routes and allow extra travel time.
Officials warned that traffic congestion may develop around the distribution site before and during the event as vehicles line up for food pickup.
The Drive Up and Go Food Distribution program has become a regular resource for Newark residents seeking access to groceries and other food assistance services.
Key Points
• Newark will close portions of Stengel Avenue and Porter Place on June 3.
• Closures will run from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a city food distribution event.
• The Drive Up and Go Food Distribution begins at 10 a.m. at Porter Place and Stengel Avenue.
Public Safety Message Included in Advisory
Director Miranda thanked residents and motorists for their patience and cooperation during the event.
The Newark Department of Public Safety also used the advisory to remind residents that anonymous crime tips can be submitted through the Police Division’s 24-hour Crime Stoppers hotline.
Anyone with information about criminal activity can call 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477). Officials said all anonymous tips remain confidential and may qualify for a reward.
Community Event Expected to Draw Traffic
Food distribution events regularly attract large numbers of participants, particularly during morning hours. City officials are encouraging residents who do not need to access the area to avoid the immediate vicinity during the closure period.
The temporary road restrictions are intended to improve traffic flow and ensure the safe operation of the distribution site for both volunteers and participants.
Current Status: The street closures remain scheduled for Wednesday, June 3, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in connection with Newark’s Drive Up and Go Food Distribution event.