New Braunfels opens parking lots to outdoor dining options

A temporary economic initiative officials hope will boost revenue for New Braunfels business owners received approval from City Council during a Sept. 14 meeting.

At a Sept. 10 special meeting, New Braunfels officials heard a presentation geared toward expanding opportunities for outdoor dining within the city during a workshop led by Planning and Development Services Director Christopher Looney.

Council’s unanimous approval on Sept. 14 effectively allows for the temporary reduction of the minimum number of parking spaces required and allows restaurants to use those spaces for dining areas.

Looney said that could help bring in more revenue for those business owners.

Tables in parking lots will still be required to be 6 feet apart and not block traffic flow, Looney said.

“Businesses are shifting their models to survive the pandemic, and the city of New Braunfels is doing its best to assist,” Looney said, adding that since current state restrictions greatly reduce the number of diners allowed in restaurants, this should help bring more patrons at any given time.

Council will receive an update on how the temporary ordinance is working for businesses in October.