INDIANAPOLIS—If you can't dine in at Indianapolis restaurants because of coronavirus restrictions, carry-out is becoming more of an option for folks who still want restaurant food.
The City of Indianapolis is doing something to make that easier.
Mayor Joe Hogsett announced Tuesday a plan to designate up to two parking meter spaces in front of any local restaurant that requests a "Carry-Out Parking Only" sign.
“As a community, we are implementing measures that prioritize the health of our residents,” said Hogsett, “We can’t forget the businesses and employees that are impacted by these restrictions, including restaurants across Indianapolis. This program is just a start – and we have much more to do to help those affected by these restrictions. But it is my hope that this initiative will not only make it easier for residents to stop into a local establishment to pick up lunch or dinner but save them a few dollars that can be spent helping those working in the service industry.”
Zach Adamson serves as the chair of the council’s Public Works Committee and helped to coordinate this program after hearing from concerned restaurant owners about the potential impact of recently announced restrictions.
“The backbone of the American economy is the small business. Indianapolis has an emerging and vibrant dining culture and these small businesses are a major employer for tens of thousands our fellow residents,” said Councillor Adamson. “The city is committed to doing what we can to ensure a degree of continuity for these eateries while maintaining the recommendations from our local health departments to prevent gatherings of people in one place at the same time."
Restaurant owners looking to request signage should email their business name, owner name, contact information, parking zone, and restaurant location to carryoutparking@indy.gov. Signage will be placed as soon as possible, given the volume of requests.
Restaurant restrictions went into effect Tuesday morning in Marion County and will be in place at least through April 5.
