Open Air Dining in Downtown East Lansing

Now that restaurants are once again open and we're all allowed back in, it's nice to be able to get out and enjoy a nice lunch or dinner.

My wife and I have already had dinner at Texas Roadhouse, Pizza House, and Deluca's. All restaurants are following strict protocols when it comes to safety for all customers.

According to WILX, the East Lansing City Council has started a new pilot program with open air dining areas in downtown East Lansing, and of course my wife and I are interested in this new pilot program too.

So here's how it works:

The city has authorized three areas in downtown East Lansing for potential open air dining.

Take out food and packaged alcohol purchased from downtown restaurants can be consumed in a socially distanced outdoor setting.

Three areas will be designated for conversion:

Albert Avenue, from east of the Albert Avenue Garage entrance, the Bailey Street Parking Lot, and the parking area along the north side of Valley Court.

East Lansing's City Manager said this is a new endeavor that we are trying out to support our downtown restaurants and we appreciate the community's patience as we move through our opening phases.

Any area in use will be open to the public from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. through no later than August 15.

Patrons will be expected to purchase food and uncapped alcohol from restaurants that are licensed to sell beer and wine for off premises consumption within three blocks of the open air dining areas. Here's more from WILX.