City approves expanded CafeTO spring program

By News Staff

It looks as though outdoor dining will be returning to Toronto this spring.

The City has approved an expanded CafeTO program after a report was brought before the executive committee on Wednesday.

The new report includes details about the program, key findings, and recommendations and indicates that the city will work with Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), restaurants and bars to make the following enhancements:

  • Updating the registration process to make it more straightforward
  • Develop safe traffic management plans
  • Support quick CafeTo installations
  • Allow owners/operators to build decks and platforms for curb lanes
  • Ensuring accessible furniture for public parklet areas

 

Mayor John Tory has endorsed the report and says the goal is for a bigger and better program to help local restaurants during the pandemic.

CafeTO was launched last summer to help restaurants and bar operators by making it easier to open patios in curb lanes and along sidewalks, to allow for physical distancing for diners.

The first approved CafeTO curb lane closures could be installed as early as May.

The report will go before city council at its meeting next week.

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