Hoboken Council Approves Ordinance Allowing Dining & Open Street on Sinatra Drive

A measure sponsored by Hoboken Councilpersons Mike DeFusco and Tiffanie Fisher to provide more space for outdoor dining, while creating  added open street space along a portion of Sinatra Drive, was adopted during Wednesday afternoon’s special City Council meeting.

The newly adopted ordinance pertains to the southern section of Sinatra Drive from Newark Street to 4th Street. It allows restaurants along that stretch of the street to create parklets and streeteries in the street space located next to their establishments.  The ordinance also restricts vehicular traffic during certain hours to permit pedestrians to utilize the street without fear of traffic.

Mayor Ravi Bhalla, who was against another ordinance sponsored by Councilpersons Fisher and DeFusco for bicycle parking in municipal garages, is fully onboard with this measure, stating, “I’m thrilled the City Council is supporting the City’s efforts to provide additional outdoor space for residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. I’m proud that in just a few months, we’ve been able to successfully implement a number of initiatives including open and slow streets, over 50 parklets and streateries, Summer Streets to close streets for dining and shopping, and now our Sinatra Drive ordinance, all of which facilitate safe, socially distant outdoor activities that enhance the quality of life within Hoboken. These programs have also provided a boost to our small businesses, many of whom have been struggling given the limitations indoors. Thank you to Director Ryan Sharp, Kimberli Craft and all City Hall staff, as well as the Council for working together as we continue to adapt to COVID-19.”