HomeMy WebLinkAboutA006 - Resolution approving Request for Funding for Downtown Outdoor Dining Pilot program in the amount of $10,000ITEM #:9
DATE:05-26-26
DEPT:Admin
SUBJECT:OUTDOOR DINING PILOT PROGRAM FUNDING (PARKLETS)
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
Downtown Ames approved the Downtown Guiding Vision document in spring 2025. The
Guiding Vision includes a wide range of initiatives for both short and long term
implementation. The City Council requested that Downtown Ames formulate an
implementation committee to help prioritize both Downtown Ames efforts, as well as requests
for City assistance. In December 2025, an update was provided to City Council about short
term priorities. At that time, the concept of enhancing outdoor dining opportunities with
"parklets" in parking spaces was discussed as a priority for 2026.
Parklets are intended to expand usable outdoor space for an individual business
beyond the small sidewalk cafe options that already exist. A seasonal reusable
platform would be constructed in the street to create additional space for outdoor use.
Attached is a concept drawing of the platform. Furnishings would be provided by the
individual business.
Construction of the parklets requires City approval of a sidewalk cafe permit for
outdoor dining by individual businesses. Two requests for such permits are on this
same agenda for Della Viti and Sam's Place.
The Downtown Ames committee is requesting the City Council provide up to $10,000 of
assistance towards a pilot program for outdoor dining with parklets. Downtown Ames
has secured some sponsorships and donations for the construction of two platforms
for use in 2026. The requested funding would help supplement the costs of
construction, marketing, and promotional materials for the program, including support
for spring 2027 requests. Expenses would be reimbursed by the City with invoices for
hard costs related to the program through June 1, 2027.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve up to $10,000 of funding from the City Council Contingency Account for an outdoor
dining pilot parklet program to be reimbursed to Downtown Ames for invoiced hard costs of
the program through June 1, 2027.
2. Modify the recommended budget or requirements of the request.
3. Provide no funding for the pilot program.
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CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
City staff believes that the proposed design for the proposed parklets can conform to
City standards. However, when an individual site application is received, the City staff
will review it to make sure the parklet addresses safety, drainage, and access issues.
The overall program is likely to displace four (4) total parking spaces from June 1
through October 1. The individual businesses who obtain an outdoor dining permit for
the use of a parklet will have to reimburse the City for the loss parking space revenue.
The platform design is intended to be reusable. Downtown Ames has secured storage
of the platforms in the offseason. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager
that the City Council approve Alternative 1.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Parklet Concept Details
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