Lethbridge’s outdoor patios, parklets and street vending program has started up

It's about that time of year—restaurants and cafés in downtown Lethbridge are starting to open their outdoor seating.

Restaurants and cafés in downtown Lethbridge are starting to open their outdoor seating.

The city’s outdoor patios, parklets and street vending program has started up for the summer.

The program has been going since 2020, when it was first brought in to allow for more seating during the COVID-19 pandemic health restrictions.

Outdoor seating has been a big hit for downtown businesses.

This year, for the first time, businesses will have to pay a small administrative and space-use fee.

Despite it no longer being a free program, businesses say it’s worth it.

“(This is) the first year we’re paying for it, and we all knew that it eventually would go back to a paid program,” said Jake Ramsdell, Penny Coffee House co-owner.

“And it’s really not too much for the opportunity to have people come outside.”

“(It’s) a great opportunity for businesses to expand their footprint out onto the city sidewalks and parking spaces,” said Justin Schipper, urban revitalization administrator.

“And, yeah, it allows them that extra footprint, extra customer base.”

Patios and parklets are still available for any businesses interested in taking part in the program.