The local restaurant continues to reel due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent restrictions put on dining spots, but the city of Boston has just given the green light for a plan that would help its restaurants via additional seating outside.
According to an article from Universal Hub, the city's licensing board unanimously approved of an emergency measure that will let Boston dining spots add outdoor seating as soon as the restrictions that only allow for takeout/delivery are lifted. The post mentions that requests for additional outdoor seating will be fast-tracked in which restaurants can apply for the seating without having to first meet with neighborhood groups and have public hearings, instead simply having their requests discussed at the weekly licensing board meetings. In addition, the board has also voted to remove the requirement for restaurants with liquor licenses to only be able to serve alcohol with food when people are seated outdoors. Finally, an update from Universal Hub adds that fees will be temporarily waived for the use of outdoor space, both on private and public property.
Universal Hub says that the approved measure for additional outdoor seating will only last until Boston's public health emergency order is lifted.
by Marc Hurwitz (Also follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston)
[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]
