Township and Businesses Working Together for Shopping, Dining & Entertainment Opportunities
In a special meeting this morning, the Township Committee passed two Resolutions to support business recovery by allowing a portion of a municipal parking lot to be used by businesses and establishing a Code Review Committee to fast track applications for expanded outdoor dining. Reopening is an important step in the recovery for our small businesses but the safety measures mean the number of customers is still limited. The Township Committee’s actions today will expand the space to do business.
Today, approval was given to permit restaurants and other businesses to use the lower portion of Parking Lot 7 (area behind rear entrance of Breadsmith to Martin Jewelers) for outdoor dining, classes, and other business activities. The Township previously approved closing a portion of Alden Street (from N. Union Avenue to midblock) for the same uses. Both areas will be closed temporarily to vehicles on Thursdays starting at 3 pm to 9 pm on Sundays.
The new Code Review Committee will fast track applications for construction of temporary seating/dining areas on private commercial property. The Committee will also evaluate using public spaces like roads, parking spaces, and parking lots, so businesses can expand. The Township Committee will continue meeting with business owners about opportunities and ways to attract more customers and create a lively environment for shopping and dining.