Sarnia council will consider a proposal for a "2021 Weekend Walkabout" pedestrian friendly street closure when it meets Monday.
The Sarnia-Lambton Chamber of Commerce is asking that Christina Street be closed, from George to Cromwell Streets, from Friday afternoon until Sunday afternoon, to let merchants use the entire streetscape.
Mayor Mike Bradley said it's very similar to what was done last summer to support local businesses hit hard by pandemic lockdowns.
"From the feedback coming in, there's no question that the restaurant business supports this totally, and it's been very good for them," said Bradley. "It's brought vibrancy and life to the downtown area and helped them get through the pandemic."
He said the reaction from retail is split.
"It's very difficult for small business people to have goods out on the street, and still protect, and have security, and the staffing to do that."
If approved, the Christina Street closure would run from 4 p.m. on Fridays until 8 p.m. on Sundays from July 9 to September 5, 2021.
A temporary noise bylaw exemption is also being requested from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.
The chamber is asking the city council to waive fees as well.
