Outdoor Dining Policy

CBD-8

Observation

Restaurants in the Downtown are not allowed to provide sidewalk dining.

Discussion

This once widespread prohibition is being gradually eliminated everywhere. The health dangers that were envisioned are nonexistent. There should be no limits whatsoever placed on sidewalk and patio tables. The restoration of outdoor dining, impossible in suburban shopping centers, contributes to pedestrian life.

Recommendation

Eliminate the limits to outdoor dining by combing through the codes and regulations for provisions that prevent it.

Responsibility

Downtown Development District and ABC Board

Project Status

Food can be served to outdoor patrons but liquor cannot be served outdoors. The DDD wrote an Outdoor Dining Ordinance which the Metro Council approved in April 2001 that allows food to be served outdoors throughout the DDD.

Implementation

Explanation of Terms

Product

Eliminating Legislative Restriction

Responsibility

DDD

Implementing Agent

DDD and Alcohol & Beverage Control Board

Feasibility Analysis

Unnecessary

Initial Financing

Unnecessary

Project Financing

Unnecessary

Timing