LACKAWANNA, N.Y. (WKBW) — The City of Lackawanna is expediting the issuing of permits to allow for outdoor seating at restaurants and operating spaces for retailers.
"So they can make the summer season and we can get summer activity at a safe distance," said Rich Stanton, Director of Development for the city.
This comes as the Western New York region entered Phase Two of New York state's reopening process last Tuesday.
“The extended pause related to COVID-19 caused significant hardships for businesses in Lackawanna, especially the small businesses which make up the majority of our City’s economy," said Mayor Iafallo (D-Lackawanna). "We’re excited to get Lackawanna back ‘open for business’ … and want to do everything we can to help businesses in our community enjoy successful summer and fall business seasons!”
The application went online Monday morning. It can be found here. It'll cost restaurants $95 to submit, there's a $45 application and a $50 permit fee. if outdoor seating is on city property, business owners have to include the city on their insurance policy.
Western New York is on track to enter Phase Three of the reopening process next Tuesday.
The City of Buffalo's application went online June 1 and has since seen 20 applications.
"We expect the approvals to start coming in this week. Some of these restaurants you'll probably see expanded outdoor dining this weekend," said Common Council Member Joel Feroleto.
Cole's on Elmwood opened their back lot to customers over the weekend.
"It's really helpful, it's gonna help immensely especially when you have to open up with 25-50% of your standard capacity," said Mike Shatzel, owner of Cole's.
