CHULA VISTA, Calif. — Local business owners and community leaders in Chula Vista are advocating for the return of parklets, the outdoor dining areas built into parking spots that became popular during the COVID-19 pandemic. The push comes as Circulate San Diego celebrates Park(ing) Day in downtown Chula Vista, highlighting the potential benefits of repurposing street parking for public use.
“More tables, more business, more traffic, more exposure,” said Mariana Cardenas, owner of Balboa Bar and Grill on Third Avenue in downtown Chula Vista. Cardenas believes the parklets, also known as curb cafes, should be reinstated to boost business and energy in the downtown area.
Chula Vista businesses were required to dismantle their parklets last September, putting them at a disadvantage compared to other cities that allowed the structures to remain. “When we look at communities that were able to keep their parklets like Little Italy, even everything going on downtown, it’s just much more lively. It’s just better for all the businesses in the community, I think,” said Daisy Romero, owner of El Cholo’s Kid…