District of Squamish is planning to open up municipal parks to local businesses. The program is expected to be launched on June 5.
The temporary park use program will allow local businesses to obtain a licence to book local parks for commercial use as part of the COVID-19 recovery.
Potential commercial uses may include outdoor workout classes, pop-up stores, outdoor dining experiences, and more. The district says it would create opportunities for businesses to safely reopen while following physical distancing requirements outdoors.
However, businesses will first need to obtain a licence and relevant permits through other agencies as well as insurance, and agree to follow guidelines set by the district.
District staff is developing a new online application procedure that will enable local businesses to apply for a licence to use a local park.
According to current district policy, the use of parks for commercial purposes requires licence fees.
The staff is seeking council’s approval to temporarily suspend that fee as part of the COVID-19 recovery program.
The staff is also exploring the potential for car-free events and other economic recovery measures that could be implemented in town.
The car-free days are being planned from June 26.
Rachel Boguski, the district communications coordinator, said the district was working with Squamish Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Squamish and the Downtown Business Improvement Association to explore allowing local businesses using sidewalks, parking stalls and road right of ways in specific circumstances to boost economic recovery.
Meanwhile, the district says while allowing commercial activity in parks would be temporary event, it would monitor results and could make some permanent changes to further boost the local economy.
