Economic Vitality Committee Agenda and Packet 2021 04 16

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Economic Vitality Committee Meeting Minutes March 19, 2021 Page 2 of 5 there could be an option of including a caveat to then allow for the closure to be removed should indoor dining restrictions be lifted. Director Pierce reviewed the three engagement surveys in more detail, including feedback from downtown businesses, downtown restaurants, and area residents. Chief Willson spoke about the context surrounding the need for the 14 feet for emergency access and the reasons for this request. Councilmember Leh had a question for Chief Willson about the spacing needs for the emergency access and if 14 feet would be enough. Mayor Pro Tern Maloney asked for some clarification about what the expanded 14 feet emergency access would mean for the space available to the businesses and restaurants. Chair Dickinson thanked Chief Willson for his explanation of their requested closure needs and asked about the access Fire might have in the areas where jersey barriers are not and what other methods of access might look like. He noted public safety is always important, of course. Councilmember Leh followed up to say that the opinions of the businesses regarding public safety and the closure in general are important to keep at the forefront in the decision making. Chair Dickinson then opened up discussion to the public and called upon Mr. Tom Horst, owner of Crystal Springs Brewing, to speak. He stated how critical last year's full closure was to his business survival and asked for a full closure this year as well. Mr. Oberholzer asked Director Pierce if she knew who the dissenting business opinion for the closure was and asked Chief Willson to clarify his position on the closure and then asked if jersey barriers are needed given that it would be for emergency access only and not vehicular traffic. Mr. Rick Kron, President of the Downtown Business Association spoke to thank Director Pierce for her surveys and staff report. He also commented on the width of the jersey barriers and their effect on the patio area spacing, the pedestrian feel of the area and the timing of the closure proposal, and the resident impact of the closure. Ms. Megan Bear, a La Farge Street resident. She wanted to speak in support of the closure of Main Street but had concerns over the traffic on La Farge Avenue. She mentioned that she understands RTD cannot go down Front Street but asked if other traffic could be better detoured. Chair Dickinson asked Director Pierce if jersey barriers are indeed needed for safety reasons. Director Pierce stated that while a full line of jersey barriers is not needed, some would be desired to help with safety and separation as well Agenda Packet P. 3