Mass Ave diners weigh in on road closures slated to end Fourth of July weekend

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Limited street closures to expand outdoor seating will continue through the Fourth of July weekend. More than 100 restaurants and businesses that have filed a permit for expanded outdoor seating, according to Department Businesses and Neighborhood Services.

However some people tell News 8 they don’t mind them being shutdown for several reasons. Resident Courtese Jenkins told News 8, “I like being outside. It’s nice out. Get a little freedom from quarantine kind of.”

Mass Avenue, Georgia Street and Broad Ripple Avenue have been closed to traffic as part of the city’s Dine Out Initiative to help restaurants serve more customers while safely reopening.

Bars have been allowed to open at 50% capacity, while restaurants can seat up to 75% capacity indoors and outdoors, but the majority usually chose to dine outside.’

“It makes you want to try more restaurants and bars since everything is closed off,” said resident Chris Jenkins.

Some businesses have taken advantage of the roads being closed by placing more signage out front to let everyone know they’re open.

“I like how we can ride the scooters as well down Mass Ave freely without worrying about traffic and it’s actually easier to walk through, too, so it’s a fun time, good vibe,” Jenkins said.

City leaders say the barricades will stay through the Fourth of July weekend and will be removed. Traffic will flow through the streets again.

“I mean it was fun while it lasted,” added Courtese.

Management at some businesses would like to thank Mayor Joe Hogsett for giving them the opportunity to have dine-in service in this innovative way while continuing to make ends meet during the coronavirus pandemic.