Downtown businesses have requested to use adjacent sidewalks and plazas in the downtown to expand their service areas.  Other cities allow this including Carver, which just approved a new ordinance, much of which was used to model Shakopee's changes. 

Outdoor cafes add to the life and vitality of the downtown area.  However, there needs to be specific areas set aside to ensure ADA access to sidewalk and to provide limits to the city's liability.

Also, those establishments serving alcohol need to extend their liquor license and also serve patrons to ensure that the beverages do not leave the area and patrons are of legal age.

Permits would be granted on an annual basis.