Outdoor Dining, Business Parklets Returning To Arlington

ARLINGTON, MA — Arlington is installing parklets in its commercial districts during the final week of April. Parklets are parking spaces and small roadways that have been converted into safe areas to eat outdoors, walk and travel by bicycle.

The town is continuing its parklet program this summer to provide public space for customers to access commercial centers during the pandemic. Last year, parklets played an integral role in Arlington's ongoing pandemic response and served as a critical support for local restaurants and businesses.

Outdoor seating parklets will be installed in Broadway Plaza and on Medford Street in Arlington Center. Park Terrace will be closed to vehicle traffic and has been temporarily converted into an outdoor seating area and pedestrian plaza. While Park Terrace is closed, the Russell Common Municipal Lot will continue to be accessible via Mystic Street and Chestnut Street.

Another parklet will be placed in the taxicab stand on Massachusetts Avenue near the Arlington Heights Busway. This installation will serve several takeout dining establishments in a neighborhood that has few public outdoor seating options. It will also serve commuters who use the Busway, which has limited seating options.

Additional private parklets licensed to specific restaurants throughout Arlington Center and Arlington Heights are being installed this week.

To learn more about the parklet program, contact Ali Carter, Economic Development Coordinator, at [email protected] or 781-316-3095.