Assigning the Commons

A sidewalk in the process of being fenced off to define a temporary property right to a public right of way. The property right is granted to adjacent cafes. The cafes must maintain the space and adhere to a common aesthetic for the local area.

The cafes pay an $800 permit fee, construction costs, and ongoing maintenance costs. The city exchanges maintenance costs for enforcement and, ideally, collects a bit more tax revenue. Certainly of greater benefit is the option to enjoy lunch outside.