Brian Coddington, 509.625.6740
Thursday, May 28, 2020 at 2:08 p.m.
Mayor Nadine Woodward signed an Executive Order, adopting the City of Spokane’s Restaurant and Retail Recovery Plan that today was approved by City Council. The Mayor’s plan paves the way for local restaurants and retail shops to gain access to sidewalks, on-street parking stalls, and parking lots to expand dining and retail sales areas to meet social distancing requirements.
“We have to be innovative to support healthy businesses, customers, and the community as we slowly and safely reopen our region,” says Mayor Nadine Woodward. “Expanding dining capacity outside of restaurants is a creative way to meet physical distancing requirements that reduce illness but support needed robust business activity. It’s how we support the governor’s restart plan, but keep our businesses viable.”
The Plan provides temporary flexibility to the Spokane Municipal Code and details the waived or suspended requirements for using City-owned public right of way for private activity. The Mayor acted swiftly to make the changes so businesses could maximize their business capacity while still following much-needed guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19. Businesses can apply starting now to get the needed permits for these activities.
Here’s a look at the City code sections that are affected as part of the Mayor’s action:
These changes reduce time and fees for City businesses to maximize business capacity while maintaining required operating safety measures. Limitations on building capacity and seating established during the phases of the Safe Start Washington plan still apply. Businesses must also comply with other guidance associated with each of the phases as conditions of operation.
The City of Spokane will be working with businesses to identify areas that may be appropriate for full or partial road closures. Businesses interested in using the public right of way for dining or retail can call 3-1-1 to get connected with City staff who can help them navigate the process.
For more information, please visit our Restaurant + Retail Expansion Program webpage
