Mayor Brandon Johnson is allowing restaurants to expand sidewalk patios, but won't close Clark, between Grand and Kinzie, to auto traffic: 'The format will give participating restaurants extra capacity and create an inviting outdoor space for dining while taking into account the need for accessibility and traffic flow in the River North community,' a news release sent by the mayor's office reads.
Restaurants lucky enough to be in pedestrianized areas during the pandemic closures of dining rooms in 2020 and 2021 saw a boost in business. Opponents saw it as unfair, hindering access and balance. The program is extended till October, but debates on the issue continue.
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