PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — What’s the best setup for outdoor dining “streeteries” in Philadelphia? The city is asking for the public’s input.
Two streetery prototypes are currently on display near LOVE Park, illustrating what could be the template for restaurants.
One looks like a couch, made of rust-free aluminum; the other like a fence, made of composite recycled plastic. They’re both customizable, but the ones on display are the baseline.
They fit the safety requirements Philly requires outdoor dining spaces to adhere to, but officials want to know how they feel to would-be customers.
Acting Commerce Director Karen Fegely said restaurants applying for streeteries get caught up in red tape trying to design their own booths, so the standardized designs would spare them the trouble.
“This way, it just saves them some time and money to be able to more affordably and quickly build something they know will get approved by the Streets Department,” she said.
Having a streetery template would also guarantee that restaurants’ proposals fit ADA and safety criteria.
“So when you come into the Streets Department, it’s a quicker review,” added Streets Commissioner Kristin Del Rossi. “It’s an expedited turnaround time.”
The public can fill out a survey via QR codes on the prototype tables. They will be on display until at least Thanksgiving.
City officials aim to approve the designs this winter so they are ready for streetery applications when the weather gets warmer.
Officials say establishing pre-approved designs would expedite the permitting process
Officials say establishing pre-approved designs would expedite the permitting process
