Board resists turning grassy knoll into permanent dining at Bear’s Cup proposal

The Design Review Board on May 20 warned that a proposal to place permanent tables and chairs on the grassy tree lawn in front of 543 Broadway would likely be inappropriate for that historic stretch of Broadway.

Chair outlined the concept — outdoor dining in the city right-of-way similar to temporary COVID-era setups — and said the chosen wooden tables and chairs "meet the standards" but expressed concerns about leveling and visual continuity on a sloped, rocky patch of grass. Several board members said the grassy knoll should remain public green space.

Comments from board members, including Mr. Izzo, noted the COVID-era regulatory framework had required a multi‑departmental review and that no consistent post‑COVID system exists now. One member remarked the board’s authority is primarily about materials and design, not deciding where in the right‑of‑way outdoor dining should be allowed, and suggested DPW or building‑department input.

Alternatives proposed by members: place seating tightly along the building railing where the sidewalk is wider, use adjacent parking or the raised area nearer the building, or present a revised layout addressing ADA and drainage concerns. The applicant was not present; staff will relay the board’s suggestions and invite the applicant to return with a revised layout for review.

The board did not take a formal vote on the concept; members agreed the grassy knoll is "a no" but left room for alternative configurations that preserve the visual continuity of Broadway.