FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 12, 2020
MEDIA CONTACTS: Gordon Tepper, Rebecca Cheng, Matthew Leonenko and Michael Anderson | (516) 869-7794

North Hempstead, NY - Supervisor Judi Bosworth and the North Hempstead Town Board have announced tables will be temporarily placed at designated park facilities that are close to, or within walking distance of, nearby restaurants to provide additional outdoor dining options for residents in an effort to assist food service establishments in their COVID-19 recovery effort.

“We are hopeful that this will help our local businesses attract more diners and give a new meaning to dining out,” said Supervisor Judi Bosworth. “It will allow our residents to enjoy our parks while supporting local businesses. Our goal is to help facilitate additional seating areas for restaurants that are already operating at a reduced seating capacity. Residents will be able to eat outdoors near local restaurants while still adhering to social distancing guidelines.”

This outdoor concept was first suggested by George Vatakis and Julia Petropoulos owners of Herb & Olive Marketa, a Mediterranean market-café located in Manhasset. Upon hearing the idea, Supervisor Bosworth devised a plan to implement the initiative throughout the Town.

The Town's internal Businesses Recovery Response Workgroup, which includes members of the Town Board, also suggested this idea and has been diligently working to launch the program. The Workgroup works collaboratively on ideas that are suggested by community organizations, businesses, and individual residents with the goal of improving the quality of life for everyone in North Hempstead.

In addition, Town locations with the pop-up dining locations will have a bulletin board featuring local restaurants in close proximity to the parks. Those using the dining areas must continue to practice social distancing and keep table usage to a maximum of 90 minutes. Residents are asked to be mindful of others and keep the dining area clean and free of litter.

The Town hopes to work cooperatively with the local Chambers of Commerce and Business Improvement Districts to help make this a safe and successful initiative.

Proposed Locations Include:
Town Dock - Port Washington
Mary Jane Davies Green - Manhasset
Blumenfeld Family Park – Port Washington
Martin Bunky Reid Park – Westbury
Clark Botanic Garden - Albertson

For more information, please call 311 or 516-869-6311.