‘Try Port First’ App Urges Foot Traffic In Port Washington

PORT WASHINGTON, NY — A group of community leaders have launched the ‘Try Port First’ app with hopes it will help businesses in Port Washington bounce back from the economic losses suffered during the COVID-19 pandemic by drawing shoppers and diners to its Main Street, according to a news release.

The Port Washington Business Improvement District and the Port Washington Chamber of Commerce are highlighting the free app, encouraging tourism with the catchy tag line of, “Before you click and buy, give Port a try!” The organizations hope the app will help visitors to discover “Everything Port Washington” from which restaurants deliver to where they can buy Mother’s Day gifts, find healthcare services and governmental agencies.

The free app, which is available on mobile phones, as well as iPads, will also provide details about discounted goods and services, not to mention parking suggestions for visitors. It will also highlight upcoming events, and notifications will be posted for the community. All of Port Washington’s businesses, local government agencies, non-profits, and organizations can be found on the app, officials said.

The organizations are looking to make it easy for app users shopping for services, goods, or information to connect with “Port providers,” said Bill Gordon, a board member of the Chamber of Commerce and President of the Port Washington Business Improvement District.

“We see the ‘Try Port First’ platform as one that will be refined and improved to help grow the Port business community,” he said.

Chamber of Commerce President Debbie Greco Cohen called the app a “one-stop app for everything about Port Washington,” whether it’s events and fun things to do; shopping, dining, or local government information.

"We are so excited to be launching it and know it will become a favorite app among Port's residents and visitors alike,” she added.

Officials plan to hold a news conference Thursday during Port Outdoors Dine and Shop as Main Street is shut down for pedestrian foot traffic only so that visitors can shop and dine al fresco. The event will run on Thursdays from 4 to 10 p.m., but it will alternate every two weeks between two distinct zones, officials said.

Upper Main Street will be closed from Port Washington Boulevard to Mackey Avenue from 4 to 10 p.m. on May 6, June 3, July 1, July 29, Aug. 26, and Sept. 23. On those days, Port Commons, which is next to the post office, will have outdoor dining in part of their rear parking lot.

The central and lower portion of Main Street will be closed from Central Drive to Shore Road from 4 to 10 p.m. on May 20, June 17, July 15, Aug. 12, Sept. 9, and Oct. 7.

Visitors can park their cars in parking lots and along the side streets because parking will be prohibited on Main Street for the events.