Buffalo, NY (WBEN) Restaurant owners who have relied on outdoor dining to help keep them afloat during the panic will get to use sidewalks and other municipal space for another year thanks to a bill signed into law by Governor Cuomo Wednesday.
"As we build New York back better than it was before, it's important that we learn from the past and capitalize on those efforts that helped so many of New York's small businesses survive amid the global pandemic," Governor Cuomo said. "By extending the much-needed lifeline that allowed restaurants to use outdoor public spaces for seating during the pandemic, New York is ensuring that these small businesses will be able to continue to use these spaces as they work to rebuild and support the revitalization of the Empire State."
The news pleased Nick Pitillo of Osteria 166 in downtown Buffalo. "It's another step in the right direction for the future of our restaurants. We're thrilled to work with the city and the state to be able to expand our seating outside, and we're thrilled to continue doing that," says Pitillo.
Pitillo says with the obvious exception of the cold season, the executive order helped a lot. "Last summer, it was a matter of life and death, and we're thrilled to see it extended," says Pitillo. "I can't speak highly enough of the city, state and State Liquor Authority to give us the opportunity to do so.
Cuomo says "restaurant usage of outdoor public space must meet all federal, state, and local laws, rules, and guidance, according to the signed legislation. Restaurants must also have a temporary use permit from the municipality, which is tasked with ensuring the public space is used in a safe, orderly manner. New applicants will need to provide community notification in a manner consistent state Alcoholic Beverage Control Law."
