By Nancy Varekamp | CNews Editor
Businesses on 30th Avenue, one block each side of Killingsworth Street, plan to take their businesses to the street in August.
The north block received a permit from the city to close the avenue to vehicles through Nov. 1.
Wilder Bar|Café’s target date was July 22 for reopening outside only. Among other businesses in that block planning to share the plaza are DOC food + wine, Nonna Tavern and the new Biga Pizza.
A plaza on the south block offers the challenge to reroute TriMet’s Line 72. Meantime, some businesses on the south side may participate in Street Seats to conduct more socially-distant business in the parking spaces in front of their buildings.
“The restaurants want the space to serve food and have a place for people to eat it outdoors,” explained Daniele Strawmyre. She expects half a dozen other businesses will join the move of her Ready Set Grow onto the asphalt.
“My own interest is to create arts programming, with pop-up arts events in my building and outside,” Daniele said.
She had planned to incorporate art next year into her business with its classes for prenatal and postpartum parents. With classes now online due to COVID-19 and herself pregnant, Daniele is accelerating the schedule.
Together, businesses on the blocks are planning to feature singers, performance artists, artists in general, a street mural and have a dedicated community space.
“After all, community is what keeps us all together,” explained Ben Preacher, Wilder co-owner. His was expected to be the first business to open on the north plaza.
“It has been a very depressing several months for everyone,” Ben added. Serving customers outdoors to reopen protects the safety of customers and employees alike.
“This adds a little bit of community in the midst of this terrible pandemic.
“We hope the plaza provides an opportunity to wave to your neighbors, eat outside together and enjoy the ambiance – all at a distance.”
Nancy Varekamp is semiretired from her career in journalism, public relations and – her favorite work engagement – writing and editing targeted newsletters.