Houston City Council members approved on March 22 a continuation of an existing ordinance that grants portions of Main Street in Downtown Houston, between Rusk Street and Commerce Street, to be closed off from vehicles for restaurants and bars to serve patrons outdoors. This is a part of the city's More Space program.

"This is something that was implemented during COVID[-19] to help the bars and restaurants on Main Street bring customers back," Council Member Robert Gallegos said at the meeting. "It's great to see the number of individuals that are taking advantage of these spaces in Downtown Houston on Main Street in the evening."

Currently, five businesses are enrolled in the More Space: Main Street program. All participants noted benefits from the program, such as an increase in revenue as well as customer and employee retention, the agenda item said.

The city of Houston and the Downtown District will work on a long-term design for the space that meets all other city codes and requirements.

Businesses that apply to be a part of the program and use their sidewalk space to serve customers must design their space in accordance to the the city’s design guide and receive appropriate permissions or permits from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, per the city.