POUGHKEEPSIE – With spring officially here, City of Poughkeepsie officials are reminding businesses and the public of the Restaurant and Retail Outdoor Program that allows an expansion of seating and displays in response to social distancing requirements caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The initiative, which involves no fees for applicants, is designed to assist owners of restaurants and retail stores in compensating for social distancing restrictions that may limit the number of people in their establishment at one time.
Businesses participating last year received a temporary permit, which is still valid for the duration of the program unless they are proposing changes to how they use the outdoor space.
“We want to make this as easy as possible for businesses,” said Mayor Rob Rolison. “We know our businesses have struggled through this crisis. Our expansion program was highly successful last year, and we expect it will remain popular with both businesses and the public.”
Exterior seating may be accompanied by awnings, umbrellas, planters or other temporary furnishings or structures that help create and maintain an attractive appearance. Outdoor cooking is prohibited, and outdoor seating must be closed to the public after 10 p.m. Proposed seating arrangements, lighting and materials must comply with the city’s guidebook.
This year, the city has updated the guidebook to reflect changes in state regulations regarding live music and indoor capacity restrictions.
“We will continue to adapt to this fluid situation,” said Planning Director Natalie Quinn.
More information about the city’s reopening efforts can be found at www.cityofpoughkeepsie.com/pkgoforward/.
