City Council Approves Pedestrian Mall Trial
At its June 10 meeting, the City Council unanimously passed a resolution authorizing the City Manager and City Staff to close streets, sidewalks, parking areas, and other public right-of-ways to provide for outdoor dining and outdoor space for other businesses. The change is aimed at expanding outside seating and sales space for restaurants and shops trying to recover from New York State restrictions to business due to Covid-19. The resolution expires July 19.
The City solicited feedback regarding the proposal from downtown residents and business owners, receiving about 100 letters which were overwhelmingly favorable, according to Council members.
Customers will be able to experience what is, in effect, a pedestrian mall downtown and in other designated areas as soon as City Staff and Rye Police are able to install traffic barriers, space markers, and other materials and signs.