With considerations given to issues such as aesthetics and parking, the City of Lawrence will look to develop a long-term version of a program that has allowed downtown businesses to construct patios and outdoor dining areas in parking stalls during the coronavirus pandemic. As part of its meeting Tuesday, the Lawrence City Commission voted 5-0 to authorize the development of a long-term “parklet” program and directed staff to consider elements such as fees, design standards, safety and parking in the new regulations. The city has waived permit fees for the temporary program, and Mayor Brad Finkeldei said while it may not make sense for some businesses, he expected others would continue using the program under new regulations, and that developing those as quickly as possible was important.
Source: LJWorld.com.
