Just outside the Oceanside Public Library, a new open air patio has been set up by the City of Oceanside and Mainstreet Oceanside to help nearby businesses impacted by COVID-19 health restrictions.
The patio is adjacent to the library’s fountains and features tables and umbrellas available for diners.
The project, funded by the city, is being run by Mainstreet Oceanside, the same organization that runs the local farmers market on Thursday mornings.
Cathy Nykiel with Mainstreet Oceanside says she hopes the new patio will benefit the farmers market vendors and nearby businesses with limited dining seating.
“Our whole goal was to assist downtown businesses who are struggling and have had to utilize the sidewalks for their dining areas,” she said.
Andrea Genanotti, a server at Mary’s Family Restaurant, says she’s excited about the new patio and thinks it will be a great opportunity for more business.
“People can come and sit with their to-go food orders,” she said. “With the 25% dine-in limit we need more. So we're very fortunate that business has stayed afloat.”
The outdoor dining project allowed Mainstreet Oceanside to rehire two employees who were laid off due to the pandemic. They will monitor the patio during the day. Only patrons with food will be allowed to take a seat and the attendants will sanitize each table after every use.
The patio will be open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Organizers hope the patio will be open for the next 4 to 5 months.
