The City of Fredericton is seeking out new ways of returning to normal in a post-COVID environment while supporting many of their local restaurants. Today Fredericton announced a new partnership with Downtown Fredericton and Business Fredericton North called Fredericton al fresco, which would see the city take on a more European-style of social dining, with the introduction of almost 60 new picnic- or bistro-style tables in various public spaces across the city.
The idea behind the movement is to expand the capacity of restaurants that have been affected by social distancing. The areas of focus will be Phoenix Square, outside City Hall; Barracks Square, beside the Barracks; and the Nashwaaksis Commons, along the river on the city’s northside.
In addition to giving locals more space to gather outdoors, the initiative will provide more business opportunities for food trucks. With plans to implement food truck at Odell and Killarney Lake parks, the Fredericton al fresco project will help fill the gap created by the cancellation of all festivals this coming summer.
The City will also be accepting proposals for art installments in Phoenix Square in an effort to support local artists. The installments will all be centred around themes of gratitude, strength, positivity and hope. More information on proposal submission will be available at a later date. The city says that they also intend to invite performing musicians into the spaces, but are still working out the details.
At the new tables, physical distancing protocols must be observed. Residents will be able to carry their take-out foot to the tables or have food delivered to them directly from the participating restaurants. The tables will not be licensed for the consumption of alcohol.
“Restaurants are under a lot of pressure right now, and we are glad to see more seating being added for take out and delivery services,” said Matt Savage, President of Downtown Fredericton Inc. “While this is another initiative under the citywide #SupportFredLocal umbrella, it also brings to life the idea of expanded public seating as identified in the City Centre Plan.”
Many details of the Fredericton Al Fresco partnership are still unavailable but are expected to be announced in the near future. The program will run from early June to early September, with hours varying from 11 am to 8 pm, seven days a week, weather permitting.