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Open Streets FAQ

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Businesses Open Streets - FAQ

• How long will the temporary Open Streets Initiative last?

  Temporary parklets and sidewalk spaces will remain in place through December 31, 2020, or as long as physically-distanced services are required. The City will look to streamline the permanent parklet permit so that temporary outdoor spaces may transition to permanent status upon termination of the program.

• How much does it cost? Do businesses need to provide materials?

  The application process is free to businesses. Public Works will provide barricades as needed, but establishments will need to provide chairs, tables, and any additional materials—like a parklet deck or potted plants.

• What outdoor options do businesses have to choose from?

  Businesses can submit an online form to indicate their interest in sidewalk dining or temporary parklets in the roadway either in the parking lane or the parking and travel lanes. Businesses can also request a free 10-minute loading sign to be placed in front of their establishment.

• Can temporary parklets be used for other services besides dining?

  To ensure proper physical distancing, and to remain in compliance with the current health order, temporary parklets are available for dining services and other select businesses.

• Can alcohol be served in a temporary parklet?

  ABC has issued a Notice of Regulatory Relief temporarily suspending enforcement of specific legal prohibitions. For any questions regarding your ABC license and how the regulatory relief applies to your business, please contact the Southern District ABC Office at LongBeach/Lakewood@abc.ca.gov or (562) 982-1337 OR contact ABC Headquarters headquarters@abc.ca.gov or (916) 419-2500.

• Are the temporary parklets for paying customers only?

  Yes. Temporary parklets are for paying customers only. This ensures that outdoor dining spaces are properly cleaned and maintained by each business per current health orders.

• How are parklet locations chosen?

  Temporary parklets requested by individual businesses are reviewed for safety by the Departments of Public Works, Fire, Police, the Office of Special Events, and the respective City Council offices for approval. Temporary parklets are continuously monitored after installation and may be removed due to safety concerns.

Neighborhood Open Streets - FAQ

• What is the purpose of the Neighborhood Open Streets program?

  Neighborhood Open Streets are low speed, low volume residential streets where cut-through traffic can be limited to create more outdoor space and encourage physically-distanced walking, biking, and skating. Open Streets create opportunities to get to and from local destinations safely while also providing space for healthy recreation. 

• What physical street changes will happen due to the Neighborhood Open Streets program?

  Temporary street barricades will be set-up at approved residential streets. Barricades are placed to reduce the amount of cut through traffic and to add additional safety measures for the neighborhood’s residents.  

• How long will the Neighborhood Open Streets Initiative last?

  Open Streets areas may remain in place through December 31, 2020, or as long physical distancing is required while engaging in outdoor activities. 

• If my street is chosen, will I still be able to drive to and from my house or park on my street?

  Yes. The vehicle access and on-street parking will not be impacted for residents, emergency vehicles, and delivery drivers, but cut-through traffic will be limited. Drivers on Neighborhood Open Streets should drive slowly and with caution. 

• Will street sweeping or refuse services be affected?

  No. Street sweepers and refuse trucks will still have access to the partially-closed residential streets, and services will be performed as scheduled. Vehicles parked on the street will still be required to move during the street’s designated street sweeping no parking time zone.

• How do I request a Neighborhood Open Street or provide feedback for a chosen street?

  Please email us at goactivelb@longbeach.gov or call (562) 570-6332 to provide feedback and comments.

• How are Neighborhood Open Streets chosen?

  The first phase of Neighborhood Open Streets was chosen by the Department of Public Works based on various safety requirements. Additional streets can be requested by residents. Nominated streets within neighborhoods with limited parking access or those experiencing density, overcrowding, and higher rates of COVID-19 cases will be prioritized for implementation. 

• These are basically block parties, right?

  No. Open Streets are intended to provide space for physical distancing when residents go for a walk or children need open areas to play. Open Streets are not areas for gathering or sharing meals.

• What does it mean if my street was approved?

  This does not mean mandatory implementation. Residents located on a proposed Neighborhood Open Street that are NOT interested in participating will have the ability to contest the location by emailing the Department of Public Works at goactivelb@longbeach.gov or by calling (562) 570-6332.

• Where is this program getting funding?

  The Open Streets Program is being funded through a repurposed Metro grant, which was originally allocated for this year’s Beach Streets event.