On Nov. 5, the City of Morgantown began its pilot program for outdoor seating for businesses downtown.
These temporary spaces, called pedlets, will allow people to dine on existing sidewalks while pedestrians are diverted around the dining area. The pedestrian area is created by converting parking spaces into safe zones where people can walk. The design for the pedlet was provided by The Mills Group.
“People like to be outside, especially now because of COVID. Plus, most people work inside all day,” said Barbara Watkins, executive director of Main Street Morgantown. “Pedlets give them the chance to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends, while also bringing an economic boost for downtown.”
The first pedlet was installed at Gibbie’s Pub & Eatery located on High Street. It features a dining space, extended sidewalk, and planter boxes and is intended to be in place until the first snowfall. The pedlets were constructed later than originally intended primarily due to supply chain disruptions which resulted in longer than normal delays in receiving materials.
“After seeing the success of the program we had last year for pedlets, we decided to try it again. They are a great addition to the city and a lot of hard work went into this project,” said Damien Davis, director of Engineering & Public Works. “We’re hoping to have more pedlets in place next year starting in the spring!”
A full rollout of the program is being planned and more information on how businesses can apply for a pedlet will be available soon. The pedlet pilot project is a collaborative effort between the City of Morgantown, the Morgantown Parking Authority, Main Street Morgantown and The Mills Group. Total costs of the project are still being finalized, but funding for the project comes from the City of Morgantown’s Capital Escrow fund.