Capitola taking steps to jumpstart local economy again

CAPITOLA, Calif. (KION)

Today, the Capitola Mall reopens after months of closing down stores during the shelter in place.

The pandemic is ongoing but Capitola officials say they are trying to reopen their economy as safely as possible.

Social distancing and other safety measures at the mall will be enforced, including increased sanitizing, disinfecting and hand sanitizer dispensers will be placed throughout the center.

Areas including play areas, water fountains and food court seating will be closed off temporarily for public protection.

City officials announced at a meeting last night that they would be requesting to move forward with phase 2 of reopening and discussed possible outdoor dining in Capitola Village as part of their business recovery efforts.

Part of their proposals involved closing off some parking lots and parts of the Esplanade area and converging them into outdoor eating spaces.

Some parts would also be accessible for curbside pick ups.

City officials are currently weighing options and say their goal is to move forward with a plan that would ultimately help the entire community.

"We've worked really hard, we kept our numbers low but now we really have to look at what's happening to our local businesses and our restaurants. I'd like to see our businesses be able to open up, make that revenue and get back to the culture that we all enjoy and the reason we live here," said a public speaker during the meeting.

Monterey, Carmel and Salinas are also considering outdoor dining.

For now, hours at the Capitola mall will be limited.

They will open at 10 a.m. today.

For a full list of hours and stores, visit shopcapitolamall.com