BOSTON — A new public plaza in downtown Boston features a protected bike lane and outdoor seating.

City officials gathered Friday to celebrate the opening of the so-called Tontine Crescent Plaza on Franklin Street between Arch and Hawley Streets near Downtown Crossing.

Officials say the plaza was designed to make the underutilized street more "people-friendly" with seating and umbrellas, plants and a bike lane. Mayor Marty Walsh says the plaza is a place where people can "travel safely and enjoy the city surrounding them."

The design and installation of the plaza was funded by Millennium Partners in Boston. City officials say they will evaluate the use and impact of the temporary plaza over the next few years.