The trend for outdoor dining accelerated because of the pandemic and it has given cities an opportunity to reinvent themselves. All across America, cities are embracing parklets like never before and cities are coming up with innovative designs for permanent parklets/outdoor dining that will remain a hit even after the pandemic is behind us.
In the recent months, staff have received several inquiries from downtown restaurant owners in regards to allowing different design/shade elements over the outdoor dining deck area to provide a more comfortable dining experience to customers. Currently, the Outdoor Dining Program allows only umbrellas for shade within the outdoor dining area. The restaurant owners have expressed that umbrellas have to be replaced constantly and is not cost effective, and the base is a tripping hazard. Because of the pandemic and a rise in costumers requesting to sit outdoor for dining, the restaurant owners would like to exceed their customer's dining experience by providing a property covered area to allow customers to sit outside during less optimal weather conditions. Restaurants have expressed concerns about their financial stability during the pandemic and going out of business if economic conditions remain, especially as we go into a slow season.
Restaurant owners believe customers are more likely to sit outside if the outdoor dining area is inviting and provides comfortable space. A busy outdoor dining area draws attention to the restaurant attracting customers especially during off-peak season, otherwise the restaurant can easily go unnoticed or looks closed, adding to the economic impact. An attractive and vibrant outdoor dining setting has a potential bring more visitors and pedestrian activities to downtown and creating an urban environment.
In March, the Community Redevelopment Board requested staff to establish new guidelines and policies to allow various shade structures, other than umbrellas, over the outdoor dining deck area. The proposed guidelines recommends new shade structures including aluminum pergola, awnings and sail shades for the program. Establishments seeking any other type of furniture, fixtures or shade element other than what is currently permitted will require a formal submittal, site design and approval by the Community Redevelopment Board.
The attached exhibit provides details about the program guidelines and policies. Please note that over the years there have been multiple amendments to the Outdoor Dining Program guidelines, the proposed program guidelines includes the existing policies and new policies in one document to avoid conflicts.