Fredericksburg is conducting a pilot program to help downtown restaurants survive the loss of business brought on by the COVID-19 virus.
On-street parking spaces in front of five downtown restaurants has been closed to allow expanded sidewalk seating areas. The closed parking spaces have become the pedestrian walkways for those areas on Caroline and William streets, while the sidewalk has been used entirely for outdoor seating in front of the participating restaurants.
This pilot program has involved expanded sidewalk seating areas at Vivify, Fahrenheit 132, Castiglia’s, La Petite Auberge and Capital Ale House. Each contacted the City to request the accommodations. City staff met with the business’ neighbors before putting in the temporary parking closures.
Fredericksburg officials will monitor the success of the pilot program. It’s expected to be short-term until restaurants are given more flexibility to offer indoor eating.
