Outdoor Dining Experiences, Sidewalk Sales, And Other Ways To Restart Tosa's Economy In Wauwatosa

Press release from the City of Wauwatosa:

June 25, 2020

Many Wauwatosa businesses are being hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic. In response, the city has approved a new program called "Tosa Restarts" that expedites the city approval process for businesses. Plus, most fees are reduced or waived for these activities.

Some businesses have proposed sidewalk sales, food trucks, or even a tent for an outdoor Italian dining experience at Alioto's.

Alioto's is bringing their classic menu items like Sicilian steak and chicken parmesan, as well as a full bar under an outdoor tent. The tent will be up throughout Summer 2020 and allows customers to practice physical distancing.

Inspecting a tent, approving an extension to their liquor license and sales of alcohol, and outdoor signage were approved in 72 hours by staff. Normally, these requests go through a committee for approval, a process that naturally takes longer. The Common Council waived these approvals to help our businesses activate their ideas.

"I’m proud that our city government is providing a boost to our businesses as they reopen, while still emphasizing the need for compliance with health and safety guidelines," says Wauwatosa Mayor Dennis McBride.

A business owner can start a request by contacting our staff through this online form.

Small businesses can also apply for financial assistance through the city. To date, the Wauwatosa Revolving Loan Fund Corporation and the Community Development Authority have approved financial assistance for over 100 small businesses.

This press release was produced by the City of Wauwatosa. The views expressed here are the author’s own.