Moonlight Pizza and Brewery and outdoor patio at 242 F Street in Salida. Photo by Merrell Bergin
Recently the State of Colorado encouraged liquor license holders to begin looking at modifying their premises to allow for service on sidewalks, parking lots, and even streets, as they attempt to reopen and operate a hospitality business during the coronavirus known as COVID-19. The City of Salida says that it is committed to assisting bars and restaurants to navigate these new realities. As of close of business today, June 1, City Administrator Drew Nelson reported that three downtown restaurants have already received their approvals. A fourth approval was also granted to a restaurant on Highway 50 within the city limits.
The order’s intent is to allow bars and restaurants to reopen for table service while practicing social distancing and operating in open-air conditions. The expectation is that this should limit the potential spread and exposure of COVID-19.
The city recommends restaurants and bars begin filling out their applications as soon as possible and submit them to the City Clerk’s Office, based on the requirements of the Liquor Enforcement Bulletins 20-07 and 20-08. The state fee to apply to modify premises is $150, but this fee is being waived. The city asks that those making an online payment remit the receipt as well as the application to the City Clerk’s Office at 448 East 1st Street, or email it to Erin.Kelley@CityofSalida.com
The current order expires 120 days from May 15, but it is expected to be extended and applicants who receive modification approval would not have to reapply to extend. Applicants must provide all necessary documentation, maps, plan for barriers, signage, movement flow for servers, and lease agreements. They will be reviewing creative solutions and will try to be flexible.
The city is here to assist in working on a reopening plan that meets the state’s guidance while following the best practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The goal is to create a safe reopening plan to limit community spread and avoid having to close the economy again.
For more information, contact City Hall at 719-539-4555.
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