Petition to Reinstate Downtown Chico Parklets

Statement of Purpose

We, the undersigned, respectfully urge the City of Chico to reinstate outdoor parklets in the downtown business district - either through renewed municipal funding or by enabling privately funded alternatives.

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, temporary parklets were introduced throughout downtown Chico to support local businesses amid indoor capacity restrictions. These parklets expanded outdoor dining and created

vibrant public spaces that helped keep small businesses afloat and residents safely connected to their community.

In 2021, $300,000 in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds were allocated for upgrading these parklets, but due to projected costs reaching over $1.1 million, the city discontinued the program by December 1, 2022.

The remaining funds were redirected to update a parking study, and 26 parking spaces were reclaimed - but at the cost of losing outdoor seating, pedestrian activity, and a key lifeline for local establishments.

Why Reinstating Parklets Matters

- Boosting Small Business Revenue: Parklets allow restaurants and cafes to expand seating capacity, increasing revenue - especially crucial during warm months and weekends.

- Creating Community-Friendly Space: These outdoor zones enhance the social and cultural atmosphere of downtown, drawing both locals and tourists.

- Improving Pedestrian Safety: Parklets create a buffer between sidewalk pedestrians and street traffic, slowing cars and encouraging foot traffic.

- Supporting Economic Recovery: With proper regulation and flexibility, allowing businesses to fund their own parklets could ease financial burden on the city while still revitalizing downtown.

- Environmental & Aesthetic Benefits: Well-designed parklets with planters or public seating beautify streets

and promote environmental sustainability.

Our Request :

Petition to Reinstate Downtown Chico Parklets

1. Explore revised funding mechanisms, including grants, business-led initiatives, or public-private partnerships to bring back parklets.

2. Allow individual businesses to construct approved parklets under a streamlined permitting process.

3. Include parklet reinstatement in downtown revitalization plans, as part of broader economic recovery and urban improvement strategies.