June 10, 2020 (Moscow, Idaho) -- The City of Moscow has approved a program allowing businesses to temporarily expand their usage of public rights-of-way (ROW). The City Council action also allows for expanded use, with permission, of adjacent business frontages, and, if possible, the use of certain parking stalls to accommodate more outdoor spaces.
 
Developed in response to City, State, and CDC guidance for public safety during the COVID-19 crisis, this program aims to lessen the economic impact of the pandemic on the Moscow business community. Expanded use of ROW areas will allow businesses to facilitate social distancing for their patrons while safely activating these public spaces with a celebratory atmosphere.
 
Any business interested in this opportunity can contact Tammy Gray at tgray@ci.moscow.id.us or 208-883-7096 to schedule a consultation. A City representative will work with the applicant to determine what options are feasible for their location, and will help them fill out the requisite form:
 
https://www.ci.moscow.id.us/DocumentCenter/View/20251/Temporary-Expansion-of-Sidewalk-Cafe-Area-PDF
 
The City Clerk will forward the application to Police, Fire and Community Events staff for review, and if it is determined that the expansion does not unreasonably interfere with pedestrian traffic and/or other uses of the public right-of-way, the City Clerk can approve the application.