Temporary Outdoor Dining Areas Removed From Dedham Square

Press release from the Town of Dedham:

December 15, 2020

Because of the impending winter storm, Public Works crews labored on Monday to remove the concrete barricades and sidewalk extensions that had been erected to create temporary outdoor dining spaces in Dedham Square.

For much of 2020, in response to pandemic restrictions on indoor dining, the Town had converted 17 on-street parking spaces into protected areas for people to dine outdoors at local establishments. This program proved to be a welcome addition to the Square, benefiting restaurants and visitors alike.

Earlier this month, the Engineering Department submitted an application to the State’s Shared Winter Streets & Spaces Grant, through which the Town could obtain up to $300,000 for the design and construction of permanent extension of certain sidewalk areas.

However, before any design decisions are made, the Town will manage a public process to gather business and community input.

“Parking has many stakeholders,” said Town Manager Leon Goodwin. “Any changes to on-street parking must balance the competing needs of convenience for retail and takeout food service with the needs of outdoor restaurant seating and sidewalk sales.”

This press release was produced by the Town of Dedham. The views expressed here are the author’s own.