Policy: Urban Designs and Public Space Interventions

The design of an outdoor COVID dining plan was urgently requested by a coalition of downtown Durham restaurant owners, as well as the Mayor’s office, in response to indoor dining restrictions initiated by the pandemic. Research into regulations, existing outdoor dining policies, and a variety of constraints formed the basis of the implemented design.

The application of this policy successfully maintained a vibrant Downtown and supported businesses facing the challenges of the pandemic. During this trying time, the policy encouraged the community to safely access public space, while maintaining the economic health of the district.

The design and guidelines developed were adopted by the Durham City Council and are still in use. “The Streetery,” which closes streets for outdoor dining, also features live music and art.

Primary considerations included: fair and proportionate allocation of street space for each establishment; limitations presented by historically narrow street and sidewalk widths; emergency, passenger, and delivery vehicle access; recommended social distancing; ADA accessibility; traffic safety; ease of temporary installation; urgent implementation timeline; and state Alcoholic Beverage Commission regulations.

Key stakeholders included: the Mayor’s Office, the Durham COVID Recovery and Renewal Taskforce, Downtown bar and restaurant owners, Downtown retail establishments, Emergency Services, and the Transportation Department.

Developed to inspire reinvestment in the underused Convention Center Plaza, the proposal incorporates the needs of multiple stakeholders including the historic Carolina Theatre, the Durham Convention Center, and the City’s Department of General Services.

The approach for this project included an assessment of existing conditions, research into the stakeholders, challenges, and potential of the space, and a recommendation of a multi-stage solution and budget.

The proposal begins with a guiding overview of Jan Gehl’s guidelines for what makes a great public space - such as safety, places to sit, things to see, and opportunities for conversation.

An assessment of existing conditions outlines the solvable barriers to public use and enjoyment. Examples include physical barriers to access and the obstruction of sight lines that diminish perceived safety.

Recommendations include improving the visual continuity of the plaza with its surroundings, implementing lighting and furniture installations to create distinct “rooms” and corridors, and increasing foot traffic with the addition of amenities.

The proposal is under consideration, and was developed in collaboration with the Executive Director of the Durham Convention Center.