Because it reopens from 12 months of COVID-19 restrictions, Seattle desires its residents to fulfill, play, do enterprise — and get married — on the street

With its residents facing a summer of transition to a full reopening after months of COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions, the City of Seattle Pulling out all the stops to make way for more activity on the streets, including simplifying the approval process for community block parties and road closures, and making it easier for businesses to obtain approvals for sidewalk cafes, merchandise displays, outlets and road closures.

The steps follow the extension of the city’s Cafe Streets program through May 2022 to reclaim more of Seattle’s right of way for people, not cars, to fuel communities, increase business opportunities, and help everyone have a good life have time.

“In the past year, Seattle faced tremendous challenges from the COVID-19 crisis. On the way to the new normal, we are finding ways for the community to enjoy our streets in safer and new ways. “ Mayor Jenny Durkan said in an announcement about the effort. “Seattle Department of Transportation Programs and permits such as Stay Healthy Streets, Safe Start Permits, Block Party and Play Street Permits will encourage our residents and businesses to create vibrant streetscapes across the city. “

Here is an overview of the programs:

• Block Party / Play Street permits: Residents and community-based organizations can close a residential street to make more space for fun and play, up to 3 days a week, a maximum of 12 hours a week in daylight. Driving is already restricted for residents who live on Stay Healthy Street and there are Street Closed signs so no permit is required. Just notify your neighbors and invite them to join the fun between 9am and 9pm.
• Safe launch permits: Temporary permits for sidewalk cafes, merchandise displays, point of sale, and road closures are a great opportunity for restaurants, retailers, and other businesses to expand their operations by taking advantage of the adjacent street and sidewalks. In addition, fitness studios and studio owners can now apply for one of our permits to use the public path for activities and courses. These permits were extended until May 31, 2022.
• Community art: SDOT is working with the Office of Arts & Culture to support economic and civic growth by employing artists during the summer months of 2021 through an initiative called Created Commons. Artists will help activate public space in a creative and safe way. Efforts focus on collective wellbeing, mental health, and create opportunities for community connections.

The new opportunities, the city said, mean residents or organizations “can liven up streets, alleys or squares with a variety of activities,” including weddings or parties, community or neighborhood events, and art walks.

Additionally, SDOT says it will soon begin expanding options for micro-businesses “who don’t have a brick and mortar store” by allowing retail and craft sales with a free temporary permit on the right of way.

The city notes that not all roads are available for these permits. “SDOT must reconcile activation with the need to operate and maintain a barrier-free transport system that reliably connects people, places and goods,” the announcement said.

You can find out whether your street matches the bill here or by emailing publicspace@seattle.gov.

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