REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Consider Permanent Closure of the 100 Block of South Murphy Avenue (Study Issue), Adopt a Resolution of Intent to Establish a Pedestrian Mall, Adopt a Resolution Directing the City Manager to Temporarily Close the 100 Block of South Murphy Avenue until December 31, 2023, through the Issuance of a Special Event Permit, and Update Council Policy 1.1.10 (Use of the Public Sidewalk and Street of the 100 Block of South Murphy Avenue)
Report
BACKGROUND
In June 2020, the City temporarily closed the 100 Block of South Murphy Avenue (Murphy Avenue) to vehicles by issuing a Special Event Permit (Permit) to itself, and, allowed restaurants to use the street for outdoor dining. The issuance of the Permit was based on the City's authority under the Sunnyvale Municipal Code and the general enabling authority pursuant to California Vehicle Code Section 21101(e). The temporary closure was in response to the Countywide COVID restrictions on indoor dining.
Study Issue OCM 22-01-Permanently Close the 100 Block of South Murphy Avenue to Vehicular Traffic (Study Issue) (Attachment 1), was ranked number one by the City Council at the 2022 Study Issues Workshop. Staff presented the Study Issue findings and asked for direction at a May 24, 2022 City Council Study Session. Council supported moving forward with permanently closing the 100 Block of South Murphy Avenue (Murphy Avenue) and extending the temporary closure through June 30, 2023. Council also asked staff to return with a process to permanently close Murphy Avenue.
On August 9, 2022, Council amended Resolution No. 1075-21, directing the City Manager to continue allowing outdoor dining on private property and closing Murphy Avenue through the earlier of either June 30, 2023, or when COVID's Emergency Proclamation is lifted.
EXISTING POLICY
General Plan Chapter 3: Land Use and Transportation
GOAL LT-11 SUPPORTIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ENVIRONMENT - Facilitate an economic development envi...
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