At a special meeting on Tuesday morning, the Hastings City Council deliberated a request for assistance by the Downtown Business Association as they gear up for a return to business in the wake of COVID-19. One item that arose was the possibility of closing 2nd street from Highway 61 to Sibley Street on the weekend. According to the meeting minutes, Councilmember Trevor Lund made a motion to close 2nd Street Friday through Sunday of each weekend until November 1. The Council discussed issues including no alcohol would be allowed outside of the expanded sidewalk cafe areas of each establishment, and seating is available under the bridge. Additional council discussion on times for closure, staff time required to accommodate, 2nd Street business parking, and overnight parking rules. One condition of the closure is the Downtown Business Association has the responsibility to notify neighborhood residents of the proposed closure. The Council passed the motion unanimously.
