INNISFAIL -- As of May 1 downtown businesses will be allowed to set up seasonal sidewalk patios or display areas.
The idea was presented in a report to town council at its regular meeting on April 11, and passed unanimously.
"Seasonal sidewalk patios can play a role in activating streets and creating vibrancy," said Meghan Jenkins, the town's development coordinator in a report presented to council. The report said the town's Strategic Plan identifies supporting local business, improving aesthetics and drawing people to Main Street as priorities.
Jenkins' report, which was presented by Rod Fraser, director of operational services, said a new policy would be created to permit and promote the use of sidewalks for seating and merchant displays.
Fraser said the initiative will cover a large irregular-shaped area of the downtown Central Business District, between 49th and 53rd streets, and between 47th Avenue and the railroad tracks.
The report to council said the policy will allow businesses to utilize the space directly in front or along the side of the building where they operate a business that is adjacent to a public sidewalk.
On this space merchants will be able to place chairs, tables, merchandise and other decorative features, such as a planter. The report added that these areas may be associated with a food or beverage service business, retail displays or "simply for aesthetics."
However, in a later interview Fraser cautioned that the area merchants have to work with is not large, just enough for a small table and two chairs to fit between the business and the sidewalk, or a rack-of-clothes wide. The report also says merchants must leave enough space along the sidewalk for pedestrians to move around it and any other obstacles, such as street lights and garbage cans. Merchants also cannot block access to adjacent businesses or to fire services or utility connections. They must also receive adequate Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission if licensed service is desired.
Council and staff also briefly discussed the possibility of businesses utilizing their parking spaces for extra space but Fraser said it was an idea that was not pursued at this time.
"This does not include that. We just didn't go there this time -- parking is precious," said Fraser. "This enables businesses to do what they want to do and still have ample room for people to walk and park in the downtown."
Meanwhile interested businesses with a current business licence can apply to the town for a sidewalk patio or display area at no cost, but must have a site plan showing the area to be used. They also must have a certificate of liability insurance.
