Thunder Bay city council to look at expanding restaurant patio program this summer

A pilot program to allow more patios in Thunder Bay, Ont., may see some new participants in the program in 2020.

The uptake on building a temporary outdoor patio, over a sidewalk or a parking space in front of an establishment has been low, Mayor Bill Mauro said during Monday night's council meeting.

He asked administration to come up with ways to make it easier to get more businesses interested in building a patio, which may be allowed to open before indoor seating at a restaurant, as part of COVID-19 restrictions.

Mauro and administration both said they did not know for sure when patios would be allowed to open, or if it would be before indoor dining is allowed, but said it was a logical first step.

"Given the circumstances some of these businesses may not reopen," Coun. Brian McKinnon said before voting to ask for the report.

"So, whatever we can do to make their reentry into the program easier, so much the better."

One suggestion from Coun. Aldo Ruberto was to allow businesses to place some tables and chairs in front of their establishment without a permit, citing that process seems to be the case in other areas, particularly Europe.

Administration said allowing businesses to do that could cause issues for people trying to use the sidewalk, those with mobility issues, or could create physical distancing challenges.

Administration also bristled at the suggestion that it moves too slow on patio applications, noting it would expedite a report for council, and that inspections and going through proper documentation takes time.

Marina Park overpass

Council approved a $1.3 million contract with Tom Jones Construction to refurbish the Marina Park Pedestrian Overpass.

The structure, built in 1994, has some "advanced deterioration" in its structural steel, as well as a protective coating.

The overpass will be lifted out of place by a crane, and then moved to a site where the contractor will rehabilitate the structure.

Administration said it would also start to speak with the both CN and CP to discuss the possibility of creating a level crossing at the foot of Red River Road.

The city had approached the railways about using that site for a level crossing many years ago, but that proposal was not accepted by the railways.