Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation today that will permanently allow restaurants and certain alcoholic beverage retailers to conduct business within designated outdoor spaces or on public sidewalks. The bill, sponsored by Assemblyman Roy Freiman and Assemblywomen Mitchelle Drulis and Barbara McCann Stamato, will help promote economic growth, giving local businesses the tools they need to succeed and grow in the evolving marketplace.
The bill sponsors offered the following comments:
“Outdoor dining was a lifeline for restaurants and bars during COVID-19 and is a way to help them thrive in a post-pandemic world while fostering lively community-centered outdoor spaces,” said Assemblyman Freiman (D-Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Somerset). “With the signing of Bill A4866 into law, we create a pathway for these entities to permanently offer outdoor dining, which will benefit patrons, establishment owners, and the economy as a whole.”
“This bill is a direct response to what our constituents have told us they want: more flexibility for business owners and more vibrant spaces to enjoy their favorite local businesses,” said Assemblywoman Drulis (D-Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Somerset). “By cutting red tape and expanding these opportunities, we’re not just listening – we’re delivering, and I am proud to have gotten this done for the residents and restaurant owners in our district.”
Why is that ok? That you can’t walk anymore on the sidewalk in places because restaurants have overtaken it? For example- It is extremely difficult to maneuver around CEE GEEs in Jackson to shop at any other stores in that plaza.
CEE GEES isn’t just on the sidewalk, its actually in a fire lane. I know that the cleaners next door had a sign not to park there bec it’s a fire lane and you can get a ticket. I agreed that no one should park in a fire lane but this a double standard as they have this restaurant protruding into a fire lane.
why only restaurants, can i set up my sneaker stand outside as well, to get more exposure?
The restaurants should be required to pay the property tax on the space they take from local residents. They should pay rent to the city which should be deducted from everyone’s tax bill.