Uplift Local supports temporary outdoor spaces in Palo Alto.
Uplift Local is a Council-supported effort enabling outdoor dining, retail, personal services, and outdoor gyms and fitness options in business districts such as California Avenue and the downtown core and other business areas throughout Palo Alto. This program continues to evolve based on business and community input.
California Avenue will be closed to through traffic from El Camino Real to Birch Street to allow outdoor dining, retail, and personal services. The temporary closure will be every day of the week. The community is encouraged to park in the City’s garages and lots, or walk or bike to California Avenue.
University Avenue is open to vehicle traffic as of October 15, 2021, while continuing to support outdoor parklets. So, you can still enjoy outdoor dining, shopping, and more on University Avenue!
Ramona Street from Hamilton Avenue to just past Nola is closed to through traffic to allow for outdoor dining, retail, and personal services.
The City is allowing businesses to use public parking spaces to create parklets and up to 50% of private parking lots to create more outdoor space. Outdoor dining and retail continue to be supported, and now outdoor gyms and personal services are allowed to operate in these alternate spaces as well.
Businesses need to apply for a free encroachment permit or submit an application.
While the City is excited to support businesses and the community with a new way to dine, shop, and enjoy personal services as we reopen together, we understand that not everyone is ready for this next step. We encourage you to still take advantage of curbside pickup, delivery, or takeout options. Check out the Support Local Business page for a list and map of businesses open in Palo Alto and the peninsula.
It is important to remember that masks are required indoors (some exceptions do apply). For more tips and helpful reminders, the CDC shares best practices on how to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Watch a previous Community Check-In meeting on the City's YouTube Channel.
If you are a business and you would like to participate in the Uplift Local program, including opening business on the street or installing a parklet, please check out the Uplift Local for Business page for details on the free, expedited encroachment permit process and other safety guidelines.
Looking for promotions and events? Check out upliftlocal.org for discounts and deals to your favorite local Palo Alto restaurants, retail shops, and more!
Promotions
A new community survey is open for the public to provide feedback about the temporary street closure extension on California Avenue and Ramona Street near University Avenue in Downtown.
Take the Survey
Last updated on September 27, 2022