LOS ANGELES (CNS) – The deadline for Los Angeles restaurant owners to apply to participate in the Al Fresco Outdoor Dining Program was extended one year to Dec. 31, 2025 by Mayor Karen Bass Wednesday.
On the eve of the second anniversary of her being sworn in, Bass visited a small business in Sylmar and met the owner who received a loan to expand its operations. She also encouraged business and restaurant owners to apply for the Al Fresco program, which serves as a streamlined permitting process allowing dining on sidewalks, streets and other outdoor spaces.
Bass’ stop was the final leg of her tour around the city to highlight her administration’s accomplishments over the year.
“Thousands of businesses have been assisted this year building on our momentum to change City Hall into an advocate for businesses — not a barrier,” Bass said. “That’s why we’re extending the Al Fresco Outdoor Dining Program deadline — because we must support businesses and help them thrive.”
This is the second time this year the deadline was extended for more businesses to benefit from the program and tap into available resources. More information is available at buildla.lacity.org/alfresco.
Bass used her visit to highlight efforts to boost business creation, development and growth in the city.
Earlier this year, the mayor signed her fourth executive directive, which in part helped businesses secure more than $18 million in assistance. Her office has also led several business summits at the Los Angeles Convention Center, Mission College and California State University Los Angeles.
Among other efforts, Bass joined Gov. Gavin Newsom to unveil a significant expansion of the state’s Film and Television Tax Credit Program, making $750 million in credits available for production companies. There have been several initiatives to help the television and film sectors recover from the pandemic and other challenges.
The city’s tourism industry is still struggling to reach pre-pandemic levels as well. But, Bass noted the city is on track to welcome more visitors this year compared to 2023.
In anticipation of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games coming to the Los Angeles region, Bass and elected officials will update the Tourism Master Plan, which is expected to be released next year.
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