East Greenwich Embraces RI's 'Take It Outside' Campaign

EAST GREENWICH, RI — East Greenwich town officials are working on plans to close down parts of Main Street for the next couple of months to help provide more outdoor space for small businesses in town.

The town's plans are in conjunction with the state's "Take it Outside" campaign that Gov. Gina Raimondo announced last week to promote outdoor activities where the risk of spreading the coronavirus is considerably less than indoors.

The town said the planned Main Street closure will be on Sunday afternoons into the evening so businesses can take advantage of additional capacity.

"It is our goal to offer these Sunday experiences in September, October and possibly beyond depending on the weather and interest from the community," officials said.

The town said it is also looking at ways to use other sidewalks and other roadway space available directly in front of stores and restaurants.

"We are in communication with both CommerceRI and RIDOT officials working out the details and attempting to secure the necessary approvals to make this a reality," the town said.

Residents can expect to see additional signage in town encouraging residents, workers and visitors to wear a mask in all public places with more commerce is being done outdoors.

"We need to make everyone feel protected while setting a tone of welcome and safety for those frequenting our community," the town said. "Please do what you can to assist local business and to celebrate our community's resilience. We look forward to seeing everyone out and about in town."

Related Patch Coverage: New RI Campaign Urges Residents To 'Take It Outside'

This article originally appeared on the East Greenwich Patch