Front Street In Old Town Temecula Temporarily Closes To Vehicles

TEMECULA, CA — To help facilitate social distancing amid coronavirus, Front Street — between 2nd and 4th streets — is temporarily closed to automobiles so that Old Town Temecula businesses can expand their dining and shopping services onto sidewalks and into the street.

The shutdown began Wednesday after the city earlier announced that restaurants, retailers and other businesses could apply for no-cost temporary outdoor expansion permits.

The newly formed pedestrian center may remain in place until the State of California removes restrictions on occupancy and social distancing, according to the city.

To support the outdoor expansion program, two new parking lots in front of City Hall have opened with 90 additional free public parking spaces. All other private and public parking lots in Old Town remain accessible to vehicles.

"Old Town Temecula is a unique destination in Temecula with a street pattern fully capable of piloting a more pedestrian-oriented experience, and we are excited to support our local businesses in this way," said City Council Member Zak Schwank, who is also part of the Old Town Steering Committee. "I am confident that our community will embrace the opportunity to stroll the streets in Old Town Temecula."

A business that wants to participate in the expansion program can apply at no charge for a "COVID-19 Special Event Permit: Public Right-of-Way Temporary Expansion for Old Town Temecula."

The city is also offering a no-cost "COVID-19 Temporary Use Permit: Private Property Temporary Expansion" for businesses outside of Old Town.

For more information and to download the permits, visit TemeculaCA.gov/TED.