TOWNSHIP CONSIDERING OUTDOOR CAFE ENCLOSURES FOR MAPLEWOOD VILLAGE

Enclosures like this are being considered for Maplewood Village

The Township is considering allowing businesses in Maplewood Village to construct outdoor enclosures to protect the tables and chairs used in outdoor cafes during winter months.

The Township Committee on Tuesday had a lengthy discussion on the matter and directed Deputy Mayor Nancy Adams to seek more information from the Maplewood Village Alliance, which is requesting the approval.

Initially, the idea was to allow such structures between November 1 and March 31, but require them to maintain the same four-foot walkway from the related curb.  

Currently the Township allows enclosures for doorways in the winter months, but these structures would be more expansive. 

Some TC members raised concerns about having them up as permanent structures for those few months, which could create a hazard in bad weather. Currently, all sidewalk cafes must be cleared each night and cannot be left out overnight. 

See the discussion below: