The Great Outdoors

Streets Department Routs Out Rogue Sidewalk Cafes

Outdoors, or outside the law?
Outdoors, or outside the law? Photo: Tria

Just when you thought it was safe to grab a drink and a bite to eat outdoors, the Streets Department announces its going to start pounding the pavement to rout out rogue sidewalk cafes, operating al fresco without the proper permission. KYW Newsradio reports that officials have been out on the prowl since the weather grew warmer, and restaurants began putting tables and chairs out for the season. The Streets Department’s main beef is, unauthorized sidewalk seating can create hazards for pedestrians and motorists.

You see, if unauthorized tables and chairs, and the tipsy citizens drinking in the spring weather while seated at them, obstruct the sidewalk, pedestrians will be forced to walk in the street to get around them. And that’s where the real danger lies. The solution? Obtaining a city outdoor café license, of course.

This Spring, Streets Department Pruning Unregistered Outdoor Cafes [KYW Newsradio]

Streets Department Routs Out Rogue Sidewalk Cafes