Covid-era outdoor dining to outlast pandemic

A city program that allows businesses to convert street and parking space into outdoor dining and shopping areas is here to stay. City Council voted to extend the Shop the Block pilot program, an effort to keep businesses afloat during the pandemic, until Dec. 1. “The program has served our small shops and restaurants really well for economic recovery,” Council Member Leslie Pool said, “and it leads to a more pedestrian-friendly atmosphere.” Pool said she would bring forth a measure this summer to create a more permanent program. Check out this video featuring businesses that have taken advantage of the program.