Parklets debut in downtown GR, some concerned about safety, loss of parking spots

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. Diners in downtown Grand Rapids now have a new option when it comes to outdoor eating and drinking.

Three restaurantsGrand Rapids Brewing Co., McFaddens Saloon, and Stellas Loungewill be the first downtown to feature the new outdoor patios, all three are owned by Barfly Ventures.

Each patio has room for about five tables to seat roughly 25 people.

The parklets were made possible through apartnership between Barfly, Grand Rapids Downtown Inc., and the Downtown Development Authority in an effort to bring more people downtown and offer more, unique dining options for patrons visiting the area.

Its really designed to get people out in the streets, and really activate the city and make it feel more alive, said Chris Knape, spokesperson for Barfly Ventures.

By bringing people out, literally onto the street and replacing what had been kind of a boring parking space is now a place thats alive with people having a good time, having some drinks and food.

Each parklet costs about $26,000 to build and install, half of which is paid by Barfly, while the other half is covered by the Downtown Development Authority. Its a concept Knape says could very well branch out beyond restaurants to include other downtown establishments and storefronts.

We see it as a great partnership opportunity for the city because we do think it brings in a lot more life, he said. Hopefully people will dine here, have a drink, and theyll continue down the street and also patronize some of the other businesses in downtown.

Reaction on the streets downtown Wednesday among people out walking was mixed when asked by FOX 17 about the new parklets and how they would affect the area.

Ive seen the way people drive down this street I wouldnt want to get run over in one of those things, said Danica Huizenga while expressing her concerns about the patios being situated right on the road.

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Parklets debut in downtown GR, some concerned about safety, loss of parking spots