SLO is closing downtown streets to make space for outdoor dining, shopping. Here’s when
Beginning this week, the city of San Luis Obispo will close some public streets, sidewalks and plaza areas to make space for outdoor dining and retail.
The San Luis Obispo City Council approved the new Open SLO pilot program in May.
Open SLO will first focus on Mission Plaza, Monterey Street and Higuera Street in the downtown area, allowing community members to come together and enjoy the pedestrian-friendly district, according to city officials.
The new policy expands the operational spaces for local businesses to help support the city’s economy and encourage social distancing during the coronavirus pandemic.
Open SLO also allows businesses citywide to use private parking lots for table service, suspending parking requirements.
Segments of Monterey and Higuera streets will be temporarily closed to car traffic, allowing restaurants and retail shops to use the street areas adjacent to their stores with a city-issued permit.
“The input from businesses and community members has been incredible and really helped guide the first part of the Open SLO program”, Luke Schwartz, San Luis Obispo transportation manager, said in a news release. “These types of community partnerships will help ensure the program protects the safety of our community while supporting local businesses as we gradually reopen.”
Morro Bay’s City Council is moving forward with a similar program allowing outdoor dining and retail opportunities with sidewalk and mobile vending.
The council approved the implementation of its temporary right-of-way program last week.
SLO street, Mission Plaza close to car traffic
Mission Plaza and Monterey Street from Chorro to Osos streets will close to car traffic starting Thursday and will close weekly on Thursday and Friday evenings, from 5 to 8 p.m., and on weekends from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
“Public outdoor seating and tables will be also be provided by the city at selected locations, including Mission Plaza, where guests are encouraged to grab a takeout meal from their favorite restaurant and enjoy it creek-side,” San Luis Obispo officials said.
Starting June 26, Higuera Street from Osos to Nipomo streets will close weekly on Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m. and on weekends from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
These dates and times are subject to change based upon conflicts or special events.
The city’s staff will update the community via www.OpenSLO.org, City News government posts and social media — and contact participating businesses — should there be any changes.
Visitors are encouraged to follow all current public health guidelines to minimize the spread of COVID-19, including maintaining responsible physical distancing, washing hands regularly and wearing face coverings in public spaces, the city said.
For more information on the Open SLO program, including directions for businesses interested in a no-fee permit to place tables and chairs in the public right-of-way during planned street closures, go to www.OpenSLO.org or contact the city via email at OpenSLO@slocity.org.
This story was originally published June 16, 2020 at 12:33 PM.
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