Greensboro Looks To Expand Outdoor Dining To Public Streets, Sidewalks

As restaurants gradually begin to reopen, Greensboro patrons may soon have more outdoor dining options.  

Greensboro City Council approved a plan on Thursday that would allow temporary dining areas on streets, sidewalks, and on-street parking areas.

Restaurants would need to apply for a special event permit to offer outdoor dining.

This coincides with Phase Two of Governor Roy Cooper's plan to ease restrictions on area businesses. It begins at 5 p.m. Friday and allows restaurants to reopen at 50 percent capacity and with socially distanced seating areas.

Expanding dining areas to outdoor spaces allows restaurants to create more seating and helps generate additional revenue.

The News and Record reports the city will try to expedite the special events permits, which normally require a 60-day waiting period.

Restaurant owners can also apply for an ABC Temporary Extension alcohol permit for expanded outdoor areas.  

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