New Bedford Getting More Parking Where It Counts

Certain parts of New Bedford have always been a sore spot for both retailers and restaurants when it comes to outdoor space but it looks like that may be changing.

New Bedford recently received $79,000 in state funds to build four dining parklets on Purchase and Water Streets in downtown New Bedford. The city also got $69,000 to build two additional dining parklets in the North End of New Bedford in the International Marketplace District along Acushnet Avenue.

As a patron to restaurants in downtown New Bedford, I feel like this is much needed. Luckily it's happening at a time were these retailers and restaurants need us patronizing their businesses even more than ever before. Having more areas for us to sit outdoors will make their establishments even more appealing to those that still don't feel comfortable eating indoors.

This is all apart of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation improvement grants and hopefully, more grants will come to the SouthCoast.

Of course, it's coming at a time when the summer is coming to a close and the weather will be changing, and outdoor dining soon won't be an option. Here's hoping that this project gets the thumbs up to construct and they're ready for us to use by next spring.

It makes me think though, a lot of restaurants on the SouthCoast have really taken advantage of the outdoor dining and are doing it well. Are there any other spots that should maybe be considered for additional dining parklets?