Photos: Santa Monica's Outdoor Dining, Deserted Beach

SANTA MONICA, CA — There's a new look and vibe on Main Street in Santa Monica as restaurants begin expanding outdoor dining this month.

Businesses began creating outdoor spaces—still following health guidelines with social distancing and required face coverings—while beaches in Santa Monica were closed during the 4th of July weekend.

Santa Monica moved to expand temporary outdoor dining along Main Street in Santa Monica on June 22.

The city decided to temporarily reallocate parking and vehicle turn lanes to give pedestrians, diners and shoppers more space as the city begins efforts to recover from the pandemic.

The project is expected to remain in place for up to a year, according to city council.

Businesses have since added their own touch to the parklets and expanded seating areas, some incorporating synthetic grass, bistro seating and fresh plants.

The project will begin now and changes are expected to remain in place for up to a year. These changes are made in partnership with the Ocean Park Association and the Main Street Business Improvement Association.

“Main Street is thrilled at the exciting streetscape changes we have worked on collaboratively with the City and Ocean Park Association," Hunter Hall, Executive Director of the Main Street Business Improvement Association, said in a news release. "We’re confident these will prove to be valuable changes for our businesses.”

"OPA and the Ocean Park community are excited to see Main Street's transformation underway," Marc Morgenstern, President of the Ocean Park Association, said in a news release. "In partnership with the city and the Main Street merchants, we fully support the pilot project to help save jobs, preserve businesses, and create a vibrant and safe environment for residents and visitors to enjoy."

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