An existing business on Taraval Street at 46th Avenue has tables and chairs outside in an area that looks and functions more like a sidewalk than a curbside lane. This area was designated as a 'Traffic Island (Curbside)' and therefore it is not clear whether it qualifies as either a sidewalk or curbside lane under the Shared Spaces program.

The ordinance waives provisions of the Administrative Code to allow treatment of the seating areas on Taraval Street at 46th Avenue as 'sidewalk' areas for purposes of the Shared Spaces Program, enabling nearby businesses to apply for Shared Spaces permits to place tables and chairs outside of their businesses without having to build 'parklets'.

This would allow the nearby businesses to use specified areas as extensions of their business for seating, similar to sidewalk spaces, providing economic and community benefits.

The seating area, while visually and functionally resembling a sidewalk extension, is officially designated as 'Traffic Island (Curbside)', which does not fit within the existing categories for Shared Spaces. The change is intended to resolve this discrepancy and support business operations.

The ordinance undergoes minor physical modifications to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations for Shared Spaces and, once approved, would become effective 30 days after enactment, which occurs when signed by the Mayor or if not signed or vetoed within ten days of receiving it.

The Public Works Director is tasked with processing permits and ensuring compliance with regulations, including the authority to amend or waive guidelines in conflict with the ordinance. Compliance with public health and safety design features for Shared Spaces is also mandated.