Patio season has returned to downtown Lethbridge, which is great news for businesses excited to expand their seating space and for residents looking for a little fresh air and some rays, good eats and ice-cold bevvies.
In 2018, the Patios and Parklets program was piloted to see what kind of interest there was from Lethbridge businesses. “The pandemic was unfortunate, but it did help boost the program and gave it some attention,” says Justin Schipper, the City of Lethbridge’s urban revitalization administrator.
Businesses, Schipper explains, can apply for a few different styles of patios, including parklets (which are patios within a parking stall space), minor patios and major patios.
Minor patios are for businesses wanting to apply for patio infrastructure for a City sidewalk space. Major patios are for businesses wanting to build on City sidewalk space, where infrastructure is fastened to the sidewalk and it’s a permanent fixture.
Businesses can apply online for one of the patio approvals available.
This year, Schipper says there are about 12 patios on the go with a few applications waiting for approval. “Which I think is the highest we’ve had so far of all the years I’ve been a part of this.”
According to Schipper, the Patios and Parklets program was designed for businesses to expand their storefront onto the sidewalk to liven up the space and add vibrancy to the downtown core. “There’s a lot of benefits for businesses.”
There have been some concerns about parking space being used for the program, but Schipper says most businesses understand more people on the street, sitting and looking around is going to add exposure to the other businesses on the street.
Unami Shop, a downtown business, has had a parklet patio for a few years. “We’re always looking forward to this. People are asking for it. It’s an additional space for our customers to enjoy their lunch and supper. We’re quite excited,” says owner Sven Roeder.
Roeder adds the Patio and Parklets program brings a fresh and modern look to downtown, tying into the new bike lanes. “People look forward to it. Office workers will probably sit outside and enjoy their lunch – chatting, connecting and networking. It’s great.”
