Council extends temporary outdoor-dining permits through July 1, 2029 to aid businesses during Murray Street bridge work

The City of Santa Cruz on Sept. 30 extended the temporary ordinance that allows outdoor dining on private property, extending permit authority through July 1, 2029. The council voted unanimously to adopt the staff recommendation.

Rebecca Unitt, the city's economic development manager, said the extension responds to the economic impacts of the Murray Street Bridge retrofit and ongoing recovery from the pandemic. "This would bring us to a year after the bridge reopening," Unitt said, explaining the July 1, 2029 date.

Members of the Seabright business community urged a longer extension. Karen Madura, owner of Brady's Yacht Club in Seabright, asked the council to consider extending permits to 2030 or 2031 to cover possible construction delays and to allow businesses time to rebuild reserves used to fund outdoor patios.

Nut graf: Council extended the temporary outdoor-dining permits through July 1, 2029 to support small businesses affected by the Murray Street Bridge closure and other economic pressures. Staff told council it can return with an additional extension if the bridge schedule slips.

Council member Bruner suggested staff bring an extension request back roughly six months before the expiration date to give businesses lead time; city staff said they will do so if the project is delayed. The motion to adopt staff recommendation was seconded and passed unanimously.

Ending: Staff will continue to administer the temporary permit program and to monitor bridge construction timelines; council requested staff provide extension options with sufficient lead time if delays occur.