Thunder Bay, Ont., mayor seeks expansion of pop-up patio program

Thunder Bay's mayor will ask city administration to look at expanding the city's popular pop-up patio program on Monday.

The pop-up patio program, which is still in its pilot phase, allows restaurants to set up temporary outdoor patios during the summer months.

Mauro said at an online town hall meeting, the idea is to allow more restaurants to open up safely whileCOVID-19 restrictions are being lifted.

In his resolution, Mauro also asks for information about possibly waiving fees associated with the program for 2020, and whether it's possible to expedite the approval process so more restaurants can participate.

Police headquarters

The future of Thunder Bay police headquarters may be back on the table Monday, as well.

A resolution in Monday's agenda, tabled byCoun. Trevor Giertuga, requests additional options for police facilities in the city.

In Giertuga's resolution, he calls for other options to be presented to council, including - but not limited to - satellite police offices in the city.

The report is due back by Sept. 30.

Also Monday, council is expected to award a contract for the refurbishment of the marina park pedestrian overpass.

Tom Jones Corporation submitted the lowest bid, at just over $1.3 million, below the city's estimate of $1.8 million.

The work will include repairs to structural steel, the approaches, and the railings. The report from administration noted there was some "advanced deterioration"in the steel structure.

The overpass will not be accessible during the work phase, as it will need to be moved from its current location by a crane during the project.

Funding was included in the city's 2020 capital budget. There's no word on when, exactly, work will begin.