Reading Extends Outdoor Dining Rules Through End Of 2021

READING, MA — The Select Board voted 5-0 Tuesday to extend Reading's outdoor dining policy through Dec. 31, 2021. The move allows restaurants and businesses to plan for spring with a better framework of the town's policies.

The Board also explored other avenues to help local businesses stay afloat during the pandemic. It voted 5-0 to renew all current liquor licenses and discussed converting public parking areas to "parklets." This concept has been implemented in other communities to broaden outdoor space options for local restaurants and businesses.

There was some discussion as to who has regulatory authority over reviewing outdoor public land use applications. The Board decided to maintain oversight of the use of public parking areas and will discuss "parklets" at a later meeting.