(rdnewsNOW/Josh Hall)

By rdnewsNOW staff

After business owners lobby for it…

Ross Street Patio to remain open for winter pilot program

Oct 20, 2020 | 12:18 PM

The City of Red Deer has announced that the Ross Street Patio will remain open this winter as a new pilot project launched.

The patio was scheduled for seasonal removal earlier this month.

City officials say the decision to explore a winter patio pilot project is in direct response to advocacy efforts from nearby businesses to retain it through the winter.

“We know downtown businesses are struggling as a result of the pandemic and we want to continue our support to help them mitigate the negative affects of COVID-19,” said Bobby-Jo Stannard, Community Development Superintendent. “Extra space provided by the patio allows nearby food and beverage businesses to expand and increase their capacity, while adhering to safety guidelines and restrictions.”

Both Calgary and Edmonton have made similar decisions to extend their seasonal patio programs amid COVID-19. The project involves a partnership with these businesses that includes maintenance, snow and ice control, litter collection, and programming.

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Downtown Red Deer businesses with seasonal summer patios will now be contacted by City staff regarding the option to renew their permit for the winter months.

City officials say that a comprehensive evaluation will be completed in the spring to evaluate the success of the program and to determine the viability of retaining the patio as a year round amenity.

RELATED: City to consider keeping Ross Street Patio open longer