Car Free Zones in Hartford?

Anton Rick-Ossen argues for pedestrian zones in the city: http://www.courant.com/news/opinion/hc-plc-anton-car-free-zone.artjun28,0,1177741.story

Closer to home, New York City has recently blocked off Times Square and Herald Square from cars. Responses so far are positive. Tourists seem to love it and traffic is reportedly moving smoother along the adjacent avenues. In Hartford, the idea of a car-free zone might not be too far off.

Allyn Street, between Union Station and the XL Center, is often closed off for block parties. Permanently setting aside Allyn Street for pedestrians would not only help the pubs and restaurants that are already there, it could also help attract new business, possibly even new construction. Brick paving and well-chosen trees could really create ambience.