San Francisco Mayor London Breed is leading the push to make sure all of those new outdoor dining and retail spaces can stay after the coronavirus pandemic is over.
As health officials learned that it’s safer outside during the pandemic, businesses took over the sidewalks and streets.
In San Francisco, 1,700 permits have been issued as part of the city’s Shared Spaces program.
“I’m super excited that we’re able to make this program, which I think has been a huge success and one of the best things to come of this pandemic, we are able to make this permanent,” said Breed.
The Board of Supervisors will consider the mayor’s legislation, which is set to be introduced on Tuesday, Supervisor Rafael Mandelman said.
“San Franciscans love this program and want to see it continue, but we also need to hear from folks who have concerns and make sure that we’re adequately addressing those concerns,” Mandelman noted.
State Senator Scott Wiener is also authoring state legislation, Senate Bill 314, that would make it easier for cities to allow the programs.
“We’ve seen far too many of our restaurants and bars and cafes close permanently,” he said. “The number would have been dramatically higher had it not been for this program. This has been a lifeline.”
Related
