Downey extends outdoor dining program

DOWNEY — The City Council gave the green light to a temporary outdoor business activity program on Tuesday, officially setting guidelines for the use of public streets and parking stalls.

Council’s official go ahead comes after many businesses – including gyms, fitness centers, salons and barbershops - were forced to re-close their doors in mid-July due to an updated executive order from California Governor Gavin Newsom.

An updated order issued July 21 allows for operation to occur outdoors if able to do so.

Downey developed an outdoor program shortly after the July 21 order.

Business owners and property owners will now be able to designate outdoor walkways, sidewalks, and parking stalls for business activity, provided that they meet health and safety guidelines.

This program will be in effect for 180 days.

Additionally, a separate item extending the city’s current temporary outdoor dining program was also passed, stretching the program for an additional 180 days.

Both items were approved as a part of the consent calendar without any additional discussion, with Mayor Blanca Pacheco abstaining.