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Report regarding implementation of an outdoor dining pilot program in the City of South San Francisco to enhance restaurant and business recovery during COVID-19. (Christopher Espiritu, Senior Planner and Sailesh Mehra, Planning Manager)
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RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the City Council approve the proposed pilot program as outlined in this staff report, appropriate an amount not to exceed $35,000 for labor and materials, and authorize the City Manager to take any actions necessary to implement the pilot program and resolve any inconsistencies with the Municipal Code.
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BACKGROUND
On June 10, 2020, City Council provided Staff with feedback and directions to explore Shared Streets concepts for the Downtown area. Several options, specific for Grand Avenue were discussed, including full and partial closure of travel lanes on Grand Avenue. However, Council Members were not supportive of closing or restricting vehicular travel on Grand Avenue, given the potential for effects on residents, rerouting of existing transit services, and other concerns. Council directed City Staff to explore and develop a 'Restricted Parking' option on Grand Avenue, which enables outdoor dining on the public right-of-way, and became the preferred option for implementing the Shared Streets Pilot Program in the City.
Subsequently, on June 17, 2020, the San Mateo County Health Officer and the County Health Department announced revised orders to align with State Health Orders allowing for the continued re-opening of businesses, provided that gatherings are not to exceed 50 people, allow for social bubbles, adherence to social distancing requirements, face covering requirements, and requirements for businesses to implement a social distancing protocol and written health and safety plans. In conjunction with the revised County Health Orders, nearly all cities in San Mateo County have implemented an outdoor dining program.
As City Staff engaged in dis...
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