Starting Tuesday, residents of the Wheaton Urban District in Montgomery County can enjoy their favorite dishes outdoors as the county launches a "Curbside Seating Cafes" pilot program, Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich announced the innovative concept designed to transform curbside parking spaces into dining extensions for local eateries according to Montgomery County Department of Transportation official statement.
This new program introduces elements like accessible tables, chairs, and greenery on street level or raised platforms. The catch is that participating restaurants must ensure the space is both clean and well-maintained, as stated by Elrich, who championed the program as a means to support our local businesses. Adding vibrancy to the community, the Curbside Seating Cafes could be a boon for these establishments seeking to expand their service areas and entice more customers.
Restaurant owners wanting a slice of the open-air action can check out the Department of Permitting Services (DPS) website for a full rundown on applying, including gathering support from neighbors, acquiring necessary permits, and understanding fees that come with commandeering a public right-of-way for commercial use.
Chris Conklin, Director of the Montgomery County Department of Transportation, emphasized safety and location as paramount, with guidelines demanding barriers, buffers, and wheel stops for cafes on streets with speed limits not exceeding 25 miles per hour the program fits best with pedestrian-friendly zones, something that should resonate with Wheaton's urban dwellers. To ensure the new dining areas are up to snuff, the DPS will conduct thorough reviews and issue compliance-verified permits, DPS Director Rabbiah Sabbakhan explained. And while the setup is seasonal, running March through October, interested parties must present a separate plan if they intend to maintain the space in winter.
With an eye towards boosting the local economy, officials like Luisa Cardona, director of the Mid-County Regional Office, herald the project as a means to enhance outdoor dining and contribute to Wheaton's economic vitality. For further details on this dining development or the inspection process, patrons and proprietors alike can visit the DPS office or reach out during business hours, no appointments necessary.
