HomeMy WebLinkAbout(0009) IR 20-10423 - Parklet Patio ProgramINFORMAL REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
No. 20-10423
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To the Mayor and Members of the City Council
June 2, 2020
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SUBJECT: PARKLET PILOT PROGRAM FOR OUTDOOR SEATING
The purpose of this report is to provide information on the proposed temporary use of on -street
parking spaces as "parklets" to increase seating capacity for restaurants and bars in response to
COVID-19 business capacity restrictions.
A parklet is a pedestrian space that is created by building a temporary sidewalk extension within
an on -street parking space with amenities such as seating, art, and landscaping. Parklets are
used to activate pedestrian street activity and they support economic development by
encouraging foot traffic at local businesses. The concept originated in San Francisco in 2005 and
has been implemented by cities across the world. Near Southside, Inc. hosts a popular parklet
event annually that coincides with international Park(ing) Day in September.
Stakeholders in Downtown, Near Southside, and the West 7t" Area have expressed interest in
employing the parklet concept as a tool to expand seating capacity for businesses impacted by
the current 50 percent and 25 percent capacity limit. Transportation and Public Works
Department staff are developing a Parklet Pilot Program to respond to this interest and need.
The program is anticipated to be a six-month pilot. During this time, businesses within
entertainment districts such as Near Southside, Downtown, Historic Stockyards, and the West 7tn
Urban Village can apply for a permit to develop a parklet or street patio in front of their business.
The parklet will serve as an extension of the impacted business. As such, food and beverage
service is allowed and businesses have the ability to limit parklets to customers only. National
Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO) parklet design guidelines will be followed.
If you have any questions, please contact Tanya Brooks, Transportation and Public Works
Assistant Director, at 817-392-7861.
David Cooke
City Manager
ISSUED BY THE CITY MANAGER
FORT WORTH, TEXAS