Outdoor dining could expand onto road in Plaza Midwood to help restaurants rebound

CHARLOTTE — Restaurants have been struggling with the restrictions put on them and no one is quite sure when things will get back to normal.

The Plaza Midwood Neighborhood Association is proposing part of Thomas Avenue to be closed so that restaurants can expand outdoor dining. The longer the threat of COVID-19 sticks around, the harder it hits businesses, especially restaurants. Clifton Castelloe works with small businesses in Charlotte and is on the PMNA board.

[Mecklenburg County considers alcohol cutoff at restaurants over virus]

“We’re looking for ways, looking for solutions for businesses,” Castelloe said.

In Plaza Midwood, the neighborhood association is in the process of getting feedback on the idea of a Thomas Avenue Streatery, which would be a stretch of road turned into outdoor dining. But there's no rush, Castelloe said.

“We would only move forward when the timing is right and with the safety and health of our residents and visitors as our top priority,” he said.

Thomas Avenue would close between Central and Commonwealth avenues. Tables would line the street with a minimum of 8 feet of spacing between them.

Managers at Dish said they now rely partly on their ability to serve food and beverages outside.

“It’s helped as having this beautiful patio, having the outdoor seating available has definitely helped us with sales and being able to serve drinks from the bar,” said Marykate Carrol, who is with the restaurant.

Mecklenburg County considers alcohol cutoff at restaurants over virus Mecklenburg County considers alcohol cutoff at restaurants over virus

Cox Media Group