These guidelines are intended to reduce risk when your entity decides to allow businesses to reopen. With social distancing requirements in place, resulting in reduced capacity for interior spaces, many local entities are considering closing off selected streets in business districts, and allowing restaurants or retail businesses to place tables and display racks within the Public Right-of-Way (PROW) of sidewalks and streets.

A conceptual CAD drawing attached shows an option for an accessible route within one city block with restaurants or businesses on both sides of the roadway, using parklets within existing on-street parking and drive lanes as outdoor dining or retail areas.

We know that local governments have as much interest in allowing businesses to re-open, as do the business owners, but thinking through the steps to reduce risk for all parties involved is an important part of the planning process.

Here are some points to consider: