This restaurant received an approval from the City to close this sidewalk when utilizing the outdoor dining area, in compliance with the directives of the Commonwealth's Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission.

Because that's certainly more important than the taxpayers right to use the walkway?

The property where outdoor seating is located is still contiguous to Tavern on the Square as long as the only interruption is a public easement on private property (the sidewalk). The requirement for enclosing the space can be satisfied by a barrier around the space. The sidewalk is a public right of way.

If this is not the case and the public easement on this right of way has been waived by the city, could you please attach that waiver here?

Access is possible by following the sidewalk that is adjacent to Washington Street. This closure was approved a number of years ago in compliance with the state regulation.

https://www.taverninthesquare.com/about

- HOME OFFICE -
- MANAGEMENT -
Chief Executive Officer
Stephen DeSousa
stephen@bhgsouthboston.com
​
Chief Operating Officer
Paul Booras
paul@bhgsouthboston.com
​
Director of Finance
Rob Ames
rob@bhgsouthboston.com

Owners' contact info from their website.

732 E. Broadway
Boston, MA 02127
617-776-1900

Chief Executive Officer
Stephen DeSousa
stephen at bhgsouthboston dot com
​
Chief Operating Officer
Paul Booras
paul at bhgsouthboston dot com
​
Director of Finance
Rob Ames
rob at bhgsouthboston dot com

You would think that the city approval should have been revoked when the Salem Police officer had her ear bit off and I believe the establishment had to close for a few days on related issues.

That's a very good point John made.