Businesses and public health officials are working together to develop guidelines to provide goods and services to the public safely. They're visioning creative ways to bring businesses outdoors and promoting al fresco spaces.

As businesses begin to reopen to the public in cities across the country, officials and residents consider what measures are necessary to ensure public safety. Reduced occupancy maximums, distancing guidelines, and use of masks are among the stipulations of "Safe Start" recovery plans like the Modified Phase 1 led by Washington Governor Jay Inslee. Steven Fesler argues that businesses should prioritize open-air spaces, like al fresco streets, in light of recent evidence that the novel coronavirus typically spreads in indoor, enclosed spaces.
"The Modified Phase 1 variance, however, only empowers the local health authority to impose standards on businesses. It does not empower Public Health — Seattle & King County to direct what local governments do to further advance the cause of the variance for economic vitality and public health," writes Fesler. Fesler says that local governments have generally left businesses in the dark without helping to develop plans to enable al fresco settings in their business models.
Nearby cities are starting to take note. In Redmond, Washington, local authorities announced plans for more outdoor dining and retail in public spaces. Could yoga studios hold classes in public parks? These decisions will be made with guidance from leading best practices with economic vitality and aid in public health in mind.
FULL STORY: Pandemic Recovery Guidance Should Emphasize Al Fresco Business Operations

Norman, Oklahoma Eliminates Parking Mandates
The city made a subtle, one-word change that frees up developers to build parking based on actual need and eliminates costly unnecessary parking.

Boston Transit Riders Report Safety Concerns
Almost three-quarters of current and former riders report feeling unsafe while using MBTA services.

Boston to Begin Zoning Code Update, Mayor Announces
It’s been nearly 60 years, but the city of Boston is finally ready to do a comprehensive rewrite of its zoning code.

Proposal Could Mandate Sidewalks as Part of Seattle Complete Streets
Almost a third of the city’s neighborhood streets lack sidewalks.

San Francisco Supervisors Punt Housing Ordinance
After hours of public comment, the zoning reform package aimed at increasing housing production and limiting red tape was delayed for further discussion.

Pittsburgh Launches Adaptive Bike Share Fleet
The new bikes include a recumbent bicycle and a front-loading cargo bike.
City of Stonecrest
City of Grand Junction Police Department
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
Washington University
Mpact: Mobility, Community, Possibility
National Capital Planning Commission
City of Culver City
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.