Open Main Street v. City of San Buenaventura CA2/6

FACTS AND PROCEDURAL HISTORY

Closure of Main Street in Response to the COVID-19 Emergency In May 2020, the City adopted an emergency ordinance in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and a state-wide emergency declaration implemented by Governor Gavin Newsom. The ordinance closed parts of downtown Ventura to vehicular traffic. Portions of Main Street (from Fir Street to Figueroa Plaza) and California Street (from Main Street to Santa Clara Street) were closed and businesses in the affected area were permitted to establish “parklets” on the streets in front of their buildings to use the public right-of-way for outdoor dining and retail sales.2 Extensions of Main Street Closure and Study of Permanent Alternatives On several occasions between July 2020 and December 2022, during the COVID-19 pandemic emergency, the City voted to extend the Main Street closures. In November 2021, the city manager submitted a staff report that recommended the City take action to implement a permanent closure of Main Street to vehicular traffic.

1 All statutory references are to the Vehicle Code unless

otherwise stated.

2 Parklets “convert a former curbside parking space in front

of a shop or…