Many owners and operators of Lexington restaurants are looking forward to re-opening next weekend, with an eye toward more outdoor seating. Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton says she’s open to expanding the footprint for outdoor dining.
In addition to using parking lots, some street closures could occur. As an example, Gorton cited Short Street and said it might be shut down to through traffic in spots.
“Possibly or one lane. We’ve got to be creative about this. If the restaurants can only have 33% of their space occupied, that’s a third. So, that will encourage them to look outside,” said Gorton.
Gorton said modification of street use in some instances could require state approval. The mayor said the city council will likely be asked to back suspension of certain code, permit, and fee requirements. And the Fayette Health Department and Bureau of Alcohol Beverage Control would need to offer their ok.
VisitLex President Mary Quinn Ramer noted the local hospitality industry is resolved to expect a slow rebuild of the business. She said resumption of dining out and staying in motels is likely in the near future. “The festival with 10,000 people or a big large scale convention, I still think we’re looking for guidance and protocols on how to do that safely. So, those are going to take a little bit longer,” explained Ramer.
Ramer said a colleague of hers remarked the hospitality business has been devastated by the pandemic, but not defeated.? The changes would be enacted for a three week trial period with a possibility of extending them.
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