San Mateo to hold meeting on future of outdoor dining program

San Mateo to hold meeting on future of outdoor dining program

in Community

Should the outdoor dining program on B Street in San Mateo continue beyond the pandemic?

San Mateo City Council will host a study session on that topic on Monday, May 17.

San Carlos is considering making its outdoor dining program on Laurel Street permanent. Redwood City extended its program through the end of year.

Current closures on B Street in San Mateo are in pace until at least Sept. 30. City Council is considering longer-term options for keeping segments closed to vehicle traffic and open for businesses and events, possibly year-round or seasonally. The council has already approved creating a permanent parklet program citywide.

“Continuing the street closure along B Street could allow businesses to continue offering outdoor dining and has the potential for the City to host festivals or even a farmers market in the future,” the city said. “Our current outdoor dining program has been very popular and is a great way for the community to continue supporting local businesses while visiting downtown.”

The May 17 meeting will include results from community and business surveys on the street closures, and next steps.

The public can submit comments during the meeting or by email by 4 p.m. Monday, May 17 by emailing clerk@cityofsanmateo.org.

Photo courtesy of San Mateo