GREENFIELD — For people looking to dine out in Greenfield this summer but who are concerned about getting a table while restaurants operate with limited capacity, another option will soon be available.
The city is aiming to help local restaurants serve more customers while COVID-19 restrictions are in place by offering areas of downtown Greenfield for outdoor seating.
Any restaurants licensed by the Hancock County Health Department and within city limits can apply with Greenfield’s Planning Department for use of the areas, which include the north half of the North Street Living Alley; the alley parking area east of Griggsby’s Station; and the Courthouse Plaza.
The city plans to allow the spaces to begin operating as soon as applications are approved.
“We hope that opening up these areas for business use might encourage more people to come to the downtown and enjoy our restaurants without having to compromise their concerns for safety. We know people are wanting to get outdoors, and this gives us a way to allow that for multiple establishments,” Mayor Chuck Fewell said.
During Stage 4 of Indiana’s reopening plan, which began Friday, June 12, restaurants can operate at 75 percent of their normal capacity and bars can operate at 50 percent. Stage 5, which would allow them to operate at full capacity, is scheduled to begin July 4.
Planning director Joan Fitzwater said restaurants not located in the downtown district are also welcome to apply and that the spaces may be used for multiple restaurants.
“We wanted to make sure it was available to everyone,” Fitzwater said.
Interested restaurants should apply using the Special Event Permit available on the front page of the city’s website, greenfieldin.org. There is no fee to apply. Cleanup, trash removal and management of the locations will be the responsibility of the restaurants. Portable toilets must be provided if the restaurant is not located nearby.
Bars that do not serve food are not eligible to apply.
The city can provide six picnic tables for each location, but businesses are encouraged to provide plans for their own seating, serving areas and shade. Canopies or other shade devices must be open-air; tents with closed sides are not allowed.
The permits will be issued through July 31 on a first-come, first-serve basis and may be extended if further social distancing orders are issued.
Restaurant owners whose applications are approved must notify the Hancock County Health Department. Businesses with liquor licenses may serve alcohol and should notify the Indiana Excise Police by emailing [email protected].
Fitzwater said the city wanted to focus on helping local restaurants first, but may make some dining areas available to food trucks later on.
“We hope that it goes really well and that people want to take advantage of it,” she said.
Jim Phillips is the owner of Tour of Italy, a downturn restaurant that already offers outdoor seating, and said it has been a good option for diners while the restaurant operates with a limited capacity. His restaurant is close to the Courthouse Plaza.
“It’s been very popular this year so far,” he said.
Anyone with questions about the project should contact the Planning Department at 317-477-4320.