TITLE
Recommendation to request City Manager to expand the open streets initiative by extending parklet and parking lot permits at least until the end of 2020 and work with interested small businesses and business improvement districts to make some of them permanent, including a permanent closure of Pine Avenue from Broadway to 3rd Street.
DISCUSSION
The COVID-19 pandemic is continuing to impact the health and economic welfare of Long Beach, with a lot of uncertainty over how long it will continue. The unprecedented toll on our local economy and job market is hurting our community at every level.
This summer, Long Beach implemented dozens of parklets by repurposing on-street parking and, in a few instances, by limiting cut-through traffic. These actions enabled local businesses to remain open, by moving their closed indoor activities outside where it was allowed and safer. The buildouts ranged from use of City-provided k-rail to fully built-out patios with awnings and lights.
This program should remain active and available to additional businesses through at least the end of 2020. City staff should work with business districts and local business owners to meet their goals and to keep our residents, customers and employees safe. This process should also include evaluating permanent buildouts where possible and desired.
This matter has been reviewed by Budget Manager Grace H. Yoon on September 4, 2020.
FISCAL IMPACT
Expanding the open streets initiative to the end of 2020 is anticipated to cost at least $300,000, which will be covered by the State CARES funding. The requested action is anticipated to require a minimal impact on staff hours beyond normal budgeted scope of duties and is expected to have minimal impact on existing City Council priorities. Any additional fiscal or other risk impacts of any permanent changes or other costs beyond the end of 2020 will need to be identified and brought back to City Council prior to any action to proceed.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
ROBERT GARCIA
MAYOR