Menlo Park City Council and Chamber of Commerce,
Please prioritize a way to help Galata Bistro that does not divert thousands of cars each day.
Before the north side of the 800 block was re-opened, Roma was given several weeks to build out their parklet. The result has been wonderful, and the open side of the 800 block is much more vibrant than the closed side.
Why not work with Bistro Galata to improve and extend their parklet? They had a parklet before the road closure and, even though the parking spaces are parallel, the parklet was still wide enough for comfortable dining. By extending their parklet another 2 parking spaces, they can add as much seating as they are now getting with their temporary tenants.
Once they’ve extended their parklet, the roadblocks can be removed so that people coming from the west are no longer diverted off the road. Every business downstream would benefit, including Left Bank and Vida (currently people are driving through multiple back parking lots to get there.)
The block after the closure has several vacancies. New businesses want exposure, so it is not surprising that that no one wants to move in to a space immediately beyond a detour. Removing the road blocks would make it more likely for new businesses to move in.
It’s nice that the 600 block with Left Bank and Vida will be a gathering place. But please open the rest of the road so that people can get there.
Much appreciated,
Teresa Beltramo
Teresa’s Antiques
842 Santa Cruz Ave.
