In a pivotal move, the West Hollywood City Council has sanctioned an extension to the transformation deadline for the city's OUTZones – temporary outdoor dining spaces – into permanent establishments. The decision, emanating from a March 6, 2023, council meeting, solidified the city's outdoor dining policy, prompting businesses to comply with updated regulations by January 12, 2024, or face removal.
Currently, West Hollywood boasts 28 OUTZones, with 17 situated in public rights-of-way (PROW) and 11 on private properties. The challenges posed by adapting to the new standards, contingent upon location, have spurred a collaborative effort from various city divisions to assist business owners in navigating the transition.
During consultations with business owners, a resounding request for additional time emerged, citing the intricacies of finalizing plans, securing city approval, and organizing construction work. Proposing a phased timeline for transitioning OUTZones, the city aims to accommodate major events such as WEHO PRIDE 2024 and the summer season.
Notably, this extension has ignited discussions about the broader use of urban space. With each parking space being equated to less than a single storefront, proponents argue for the repurposing of these areas for a protected bike lane. The potential benefits span traffic improvement, pollution reduction, enhanced safety, and increased patronage for local stores.
The prioritization of OUTZones in PROW over those on private property is underpinned by crucial factors, including deferred maintenance issues, the need for adequate paths of travel, and challenges posed by the rental of concrete k-rails since May 2020. These factors, coupled with concerns about the deteriorating condition of existing OUTZones, underscore the urgency of prioritizing pedestrian safety and access.
During public comment, resident Mark Lehman voiced support for the proposed deadlines, albeit with a plea for flexibility. Lehman argued for extending the January 12th deadline to April, particularly for OUTZones in PROW, acknowledging the complexities small businesses face in the approval process.
As West Hollywood reimagines its urban landscape, the conversation extends beyond outdoor dining policies to address the broader question of how public spaces can be optimized for the well-being of the community. Advocates for a protected bike lane view the removal of parking spaces as an opportunity to create a safer, more sustainable urban environment.