District seeks input from businesses and community members to improve patio program

The District of Squamish is seeking feedback from businesses and community members to help inform an improved patio program. The improved program will aim to create a streamlined and equitable application process for businesses and enhance the enjoyment of patio spaces for community members in Squamish. The program builds on the Temporary Patio Program created at the onset of the pandemic to support food service businesses by creating a quick and safe outdoor extension of their restaurant or café. Two separate surveys for businesses and residents are online at letstalksquamish.ca/patios-program. The surveys will remain open through March 9, 2022.

“Outdoor spaces for gathering and sharing a meal or beverage bring people together and increase the vibrancy and connectedness within our community,” says District of Squamish Mayor Karen Elliott. “We look forward to hearing from businesses and residents about how we can build on this program to ensure equity across the process, accessibility of patios and the surrounding area, as well as achieve a harmonious balance for all.”

The District wants to hear from:

• Patio users;
• Those who live near a patio;
• Customers of businesses near a patio;
• Businesses owners that currently have a patio;
• Business owners that want to create a patio;
• Business owners who operate a business near a patio.

Patio use has long been supported in Squamish through the District’s sidewalk and parking stall patio program, allowing businesses to apply for parking stall or sidewalk patios on municipal land, or through a development permit process to allow for patio space on private property. In June 2020, the District launched a temporary program in response to pandemic-related restrictions and guidelines, that allowed for the expedited creation or expansion of patios on District-owned or privately-owned land. Through the program 20 businesses were able to expand or create a new patio space. The Temporary Patio Program ends on June 1, 2022.

Feedback from the surveys will help to inform recommendations to Council about what changes should be included within the updated patio program. Information will be presented to Council in spring 2022.

The community can learn more and access the surveys at letstalksquamish.ca/patios-program.

February 10, 2022