ALEXANDRIA, Va. (DC News Now) -- There's a new look on King Street in Old Town Alexandria. The city is extending its car-free zone, which now spans three blocks long starting at the waterfront. The move is popular but has already raised some concerns. The first day of the pedestrian-only zone was a cold, rainy one. While there was less foot traffic than a usual Friday night, the city hopes better days are on the horizon along the newly car-free street. DC Mayor Bowser nominates Kwelli Sneed as permanent director of ONSE "Obviously not the best weather but a pretty good day to start it," said Mayor Justin Wilson. Friday was the beginning of a two-part pilot program to make the stretch of shops and restaurants in the 200 block car-free. "People like to walk and stroll in a city and go to businesses," Wilson said. "I think we're giving them that experience here." Early reactions from businesses are mixed. On one hand, Raj Malhotra, the owner of the restaurant Bollywood Masala, said he's excited about the new outdoor dining opportunities. "Any little bit matters," he said. "I'm hoping it brings more people into stores. And it brings more people into restaurants around here." However, he also wants to see how the city addresses parking for patrons and employees. "It all comes down to how people find it convenient and where they're able to park," he said. City of Alexandria to host Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, visits from Santa Meanwhile, Michelle Marceau, who runs Principle Gallery, is unsure about the pilot. She noted there are fewer restaurants in the 200 block of King Street and is worried about deliveries. "[I want to see how] the businesses function without being able to do deliveries to their front door or [residents] bringing groceries to their front door," she said. Wilson said the city will take a look at sales data, traffic flow and feedback from everyone involved before the city council decides whether to make the changes permanent. "We'll be able to see whether this is ultimately going to be beneficial for them as they go forward," he said. The 200 block of King Street will remain car-free until Jan. 6, 2025. Then, after a short break, phase two of the pilot will make it car-free from March 14 to Sept. 30. The city is asking for feedback from residents, visitors and business owners here.