On May 19, 2020, the City Council requested the City Manager to create an Open Streets Initiative and explore ways to open more public space throughout Long Beach to allow for increased outdoor activities and stronger economic recovery, while maintaining appropriate physical distancing, in accordance with the current Health Order. On June 16, 2020, to support COVID-19 recovery for businesses and residents, the City Council approved an Open Streets Initiative to temporarily transform public areas into safe spaces for physically-distanced activity.

On December 15, 2020 the City Council authorized the City Manager, or designee, to assess and extend the Open Streets program on a quarterly basis, beginning January 1, 2021, as need and funding allows, through any point of the Health Order.

To ensure further support and COVID-19 economic recovery for businesses, and to allow for additional outdoor space for physically distanced activities, the Open Streets Program has been extended through June 30, 2021. If you are an existing outdoor activity permit holder with an expiration date of March 31, 2021 - your permit will automatically be extended through June 30, 2021. No further action is required on your part.