For those that are still hesitant to step into your local retailer, don't worry – your favorite products and merchandise can now be purchased from the sidewalk in Southlake.
The Southlake City Council recently unanimously passed a temporary ordinance that would allow sidewalk sales to be conducted outside of business retailers within the city. Economic Development Deputy Director Daniel Cortez says that the idea originated from the city’s economic recovery task force, which is led by Mayor Pro Tem Shawn McCaskill and city councilmembers John Huffman and Chad Patton.
“Getting people to a comfortable environment to shop again is the main idea,” Daniel says. “Many people are still apprehensive of going out to shop and dine in enclosed spaces. By allowing a more open environment and maintaining social distancing, we would give some a little more confidence in trying to return to a more normal day and interacting with our businesses in town.”
According to the city guidelines, any retailer that owns or leases commercial space can sell products on their sidewalk or walkway in front of the building. While the temporary ordinance lasts until May 29, the city may permit further sales beyond that depending on how long social distancing may be required.
“This program is just one part of Southlake’s recovery efforts,” Daniel expresses. “Just like the expanded patio dining and the temporarily relaxed signage requirements, it will be regularly reviewed by the task force and the council. I think the task force is looking for the right combination of programs that can be used strategically to support Southlake’s recovery now and in the coming months.”
Check out your local retailer to take advantage of the convenient offering. To stay up to date on the economic recovery task force’s initiatives, go to the city’s business resource center at CityOfSouthlake.com.