REHOBOTH BEACH, DE - The City of Rehoboth Beach is continuing discussion of outdoor dining. Commissioners heard a follow up report at Monday's Commissioner's Workshop relating to how well businesses have followed the cities outdoor dining manual. The growth of outdoor dining in the wake of COVID-19 prompted the city to establish a design manual for outdoor dining in March 2022.
Matt Janis, the Chief Building Inspector, acknowledged the overwhelming success but noted some concerns, primarily related to expansion beyond the permitted boundaries.
"Not very many negatives, other than concerns about creep, barriers going beyond what was originally permitted."
While no definitive plan has been established to deal with the 'creep', Janis said they will work with individual businesses to ensure pedestrian safety. He encouraged outdoor dining where feasible.
"I think we’re taking advantage of all the areas we can take advantage of. Unfortunately, not all streets can accommodate these scenarios, but for the majority that do, it’s working well for them." said Janis.
Local businesses, such as Arena's Deli and Bar, which has a large outdoor patio, say outdoor dining has always proved to be a great help,
"This whole extra set of tables, I’ve found even if we’re full inside on a busy weekend, people are willing to sit outside. It doesn’t get that cold this time of year. It’s been really nice, it’s like having a whole other set of restaurants." said General Manager Kimberly Dare.
