Port Moody launches COVID-19 temporary assistance program to support local businesses

The City of Port Moody has developed the COVID-19 Temporary Assistance Program for Businesses, with a special focus on options for temporarily expanding the use of outdoor space, to support local businesses facing challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Through this program, the City will consider proposals from businesses that may require:
- temporary relaxations to onsite parking requirements to allow uses such as queueing and patios;
- consideration of closing street parking to accommodate other uses;
- temporary use of City-owned spaces, such as parking lots and sidewalks, provided sufficient pedestrian and cycling access is maintained; and
- use of the City’s new Parklet Program (parklets are temporary spaces built on public land where people can sit, relax, and enjoy their surroundings – visit portmoody.ca/parklet to learn more).
“Council has given staff the flexibility to develop measures in support of our local businesses as they recover after closing or reducing their services due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Manager of Economic Development Joji Kumagai. “The COVID-19 Temporary Assistance Program for Businesses will make it quick and easy for business owners to submit proposals and move through the appropriate permitting processes. Tell us what you want to achieve and we’ll work with you on the best way to make it happen.”
Interested business owners can find more information as well as an online application form at portmoody.ca/tap.
Permanent additions or renovations will not be considered as part of this program. Any permits issued through this program will be valid until October 31, 2020.
Businesses must at all times comply with WorkSafeBC requirements and other provincial directives such as those outlined in the provincial government’s Restart Plan. Businesses may also need to contact the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch if they wish to make any changes to their existing liquor licence.
The City is continuously monitoring information about COVID-19 coming from public health authorities, and makes decisions about City services and facilities with the health and safety of its residents in mind. Visit portmoody.ca/covid19 to stay up-to-date on impacts to City services.