Created during the COVID-19 pandemic times, streateries were largely credited with saving local restaurants. Now, new rules governing the structures and new fees associated with them are what’s forcing some business owners to make hard decisions.
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New rules go into effect for DC streateries
Along 18th Street NW in Adams Morgan, District Department of Transportation workers are using drills to take apart the metal and wood framing of structures used over the past several years as outdoor dining spaces.
Monday was the first full day after new rules governing the outdoor spaces, otherwise known as “streateries,” went into effect.
Created during pandemic times, streateries were largely credited with saving local restaurants. They allowed people to congregate in small groups outside and enjoy a meal while social distancing.
Now, new rules governing the structures and new fees associated with them are what’s forcing some business owners to make hard decisions.
“We are not renewing our permit for that,” said Cody, who manages Andy’s Pizza in Adams Morgan. “They actually told us today that all our furniture had to be out.”
Under the updated rules, a business owner or manager would have to pay a $260 permit fee and then pay $20 per square foot.
“I think the fee is a little much for probably most establishments. That’s not including the fee for a barricade. It’s an extra $200 per barricade that you need,” Cody said.
Some say eliminating the streateries would open up much needed parking. But Michael Askarinam, owner of Dupont Italian Kitchen, disagrees.
“It’s really been tough because there are delivery trucks that come in, and there is no place to park,” Adkarinam said. “And lots of people they cannot park on the street anymore. It doesn’t help us.”
The D.C. Council will vote Tuesday on an emergency measure proposed by Ward 6 Council member Charles Allen that would reduce the occupancy fee to $15 per square foot and allow more flexibility on design.
If passed, the measure would go into effect immediately for 90 days.
DDOT has said that enforcement of the new regulations would not begin until next year, meaning some structures established now could be up until next year.
“We submitted our application on Nov. 18 and have heard nothing back,” said Georgia Katinas, general manager of Annie’s Paramount Steakhouse in Dupont Circle.
She said it’s been a confusing process to get to this point with the new regulations.
“We don’t have any outdoor space otherwise,” Katinas said.
She doesn’t believe giving up the parking spaces will result in more general parking in the neighborhood.
“On 17th Street, that space would otherwise be unused. It wouldn’t be parking; it wouldn’t be bike. It wouldn’t be driving lanes,” she said, referring to the restrictions on any other traffic except for deliveries.
“It is unused space. So, truly, the best use for the space is our streatery,” she said. “It brings joy to the street. It’s beautiful, and ours is one of the best in the city, I think.”
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