The Austin City Council could vote next week on roping off even more street space.
But with an emphasis this time on small businesses, instead of neighborhoods like what was approved earlier this May through Austin’s Healthy Streets Initiative. Council member Alison Alter said at a recent council meeting there is a growing need for outdoor space, “I think for some time its going to be preferable to enjoy outdoor seating at restaurants.”
And Council member Leslie Pool has now introduced the Shop the Block initiative. A resolution that would allow for a Special Events permit to be issued, closing off an area to cars and allowing a business to expand onto sidewalks.
Pool said for many, a partial reopening isn’t feasible, so by using sidewalks and other portions of the right of way, businesses can expand outdoors, promoting both commerce and social distancing.
Pool also hoped this will lead to even more pedestrian-friendly resolutions.
