pages: CityCouncil/2020-05-19.pdf, 32
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CityCouncil | 2020-05-19 | 32 | Councilmember Oddie stated Council should go big on the item; noted other cities are providing the program; residents will go somewhere else should Alameda not participate; expressed support for closing Park Street from Buena Vista Avenue to San Jose Avenue every Friday and Saturday night and Webster Street from Buena Vista Avenue to Central Avenue; stated that he supports closing parking lots across the City where restaurants are near, such as South Shore and Alameda Landing; stated California Alcohol and Beverage Control (ABC) released an updated regulation allowing restaurants and bars to serve customers on sidewalks, parking lots, and streets; Alameda should not miss out on the program; expressed concern about eating next to vehicle exhaust. Councilmember Daysog stated residents are enthusiastic about the program; expressed support for the program; stated the program will help many businesses in commercial areas; expressed support for closing side streets such as Alameda Avenue between Park Street and Oak Street and Webb Avenue between Everett Street and Park Street. Councilmember Vella stated there are several street fairs scheduled during the summer on both Park Street and Webster Street; noted the events will not happen with regulations in place; expressed support for some form of special event street closure opportunity with closed off street sections for several days to allow for outdoor dining and safe foot traffic; stated there are opportunities in July or August; safe and clean bike parking and corrals will be needed; outdoor parking lots should be considered for Webster Street to allow business use. Vice Mayor Knox White the program should be implemented as fast as possible. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft expressed support for the program; expressed concern about closing Park Street and Webster Street on Friday and Saturday due to bus routes; stated those who rely on public transit need to be considered; the City can work with transit partners to see what can be done related to rerouting; expressed support for highlighting restaurants with an event and moving the item forward to become a permanent feature. Vice Mayor Knox White moved approval of endorsing the plan with direction to staff to look for opportunities to close streets in order to support business districts. Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion. Under discussion, Councilmember Oddie stated that he would propose an evening closure to portions of Park Street and Webster Street on Friday and Saturday; expressed concern about having enough space to have proper social distancing; outlined other cities providing similar programs. Special Meeting Alameda City Council 23 May 19, 2020 | CityCouncil/2020-05-19.pdf |