TITLE
Recommendation to receive and file a presentation on the Citywide Temporary Parklet Program and request direction from City Council regarding the Program’s June 30, 2022 sunset date and possible extension to businesses that apply for a Permanent Parklet Permit. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
In response to COVID-19 pandemic impacts and changing Health Orders, the City of Long Beach (City) embarked on an Open Streets Initiative (Initiative) which included Outdoor Activity Permits to support both a Temporary Parklet Program (Program) and expansion of operations on private property, in the Spring of 2020. The Program was implemented to achieve two primary goals. First, to support businesses throughout Long Beach by providing additional space for restaurants and bars to expand their operations outdoors. Second, to provide more space for proper social distancing and adherence to relevant Health Orders. On May 24, 2022, the City Council directed City staff to bring back this item to discuss and provide direction on the future of the Program.
Over the past 25 months, the Program has successfully allowed for outdoor dining at more than 130 temporary parklet locations throughout Long Beach. The Program has experienced both challenges and successes since implementation. The Public Works Department has been responsive to concerns and has engaged stakeholders in an effort to keep temporary parklets safe and utilized to the general satisfaction of residents, businesses, and the City Traffic Engineer, who is ultimately responsible for the safety of the temporary parklet installations.
On September 14, 2021, the City Council supported an extension of the previously approved Initiative, thereby allowing restaurants and other related service industries to continue to utilize temporary parklets, outdoor dining spaces and Outdoor Activity Permits (OAP) through June 30, 2022.
As the sunset date for the Program draws near, Public Works staff has prepared an overview that evaluate...
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