As part of Resilient Savannah, a second resolution is proposed to expand the outdoor food and beverage service pilot program to include restaurants as well as bars. The initiative was approved by Mayor and Aldermen on May 28, 2020 and was initially created to help local restaurants recover from the COVID-19 crisis while keeping the public safe.

The program mirrored similar programs throughout the country that allow for restaurants to increase capacity while maintaining social distancing guidelines. Strategies employed include by restaurants and cafes included:

• Sidewalk Dining – The current permitting process has been streamlined and all fees waived for the pilot period.

• Parklets – Parklets provide an opportunity for restaurants to temporarily take over on-street parking spots and other right-of-way for additional outdoor food and beverage service.

• Street Closures – Allows for temporary closure of streets with a high concentration of restaurants and cafes.

During the pilot, a survey was conducted showing that more than 80% of the respondents supported more options for sidewalk dining, parklets and street closures during the COVID-19 crisis.

Since the initial pilot expired on June 15, 2020 and the Governor’s Order permits bars to open as of June 1, 2020, a new resolution is needed to expand the program to include both restaurants and bars. Participants will be responsible for submitting a plan that shows how social distancing and other safety measures will be maintained. Proposals will be reviewed by a multi-disciplinary group of City departments (e.g. Traffic Engineering, Special Events, Mobility and Parking, Planning and Urban Design, etc.) to ensure they follow all regulations and limit negative impacts to surrounding neighborhoods. The proposed resolution will expire on September 30, 2020.

To keep surrounding communities informed about any street closures or other possible disruptions, the City is doing the following:

• Neighborhood Services is working with neighborhood presidents to get the word out to residents citywide.

• Public Communications is promoting the initiative through social media and other channels.

• Information about the program including guidelines and applications are available online.

• The City is partnering with local restaurant and business organizations to coordinate outreach and compliance.

• Residents and neighboring businesses will be notified of any upcoming street closures to limit negative impacts.

• A feedback survey is available online to collect input, questions, and concerns from the community

Approval