GOSHEN, IND. (WOWO) The City of Goshen is moving forward with a proposed “Restaurant Row” concept in its downtown area, with city leaders authorizing funding for a pilot program aimed at expanding outdoor dining and reimagining a section of Lincoln Avenue.
Downtown dining pilot program proposed
The project focuses on Lincoln Avenue between Fifth and Main Streets, where several restaurants are already located. City officials say the goal is to test whether the corridor can support expanded outdoor seating and a more walkable public gathering space.
“And so we’re embarking on a research project, we’re calling restaurant row to see whether or not we can expand some of the seating area that’s there, re-envision what’s possible and develop more outdoor seating and gathering space,” said Goshen Mayor Gina Leichty.
The proposal has been approved for a pilot phase, allowing the city to temporarily test the concept before making any long-term decisions.
Street design changes under consideration
Early design renderings show several potential changes to the block, including widened sidewalks, added bike lanes, and a reconfiguration of traffic flow. Plans also include maintaining parking on one side of the street while removing parking on the opposite side.
City officials say a center turn lane would remain as part of the redesign.
The proposal is intended to increase pedestrian access while still maintaining vehicle movement through the downtown corridor.
Business and parking considerations
Local business leaders say the project is being developed in coordination with restaurant owners to better understand their needs and evaluate how outdoor dining space could be expanded.
Nick Keiffer, president of the Goshen Chamber of Commerce, said parking is not expected to be a major concern.
“We have plenty of parking in downtown Goshen. And we have four city lots in half a block radius,” Keiffer said. “The pilot phase of this is really trying to identify what’s gonna work best before we make any heavy investments down the road, but just trying to figure out what the right recipe is there for downtown.”
Officials noted that some businesses already operate outdoor dining areas, including establishments that have done so for more than a decade.
Pilot timeline and public input
The city says the “Restaurant Row” pilot program could begin as early as this summer, depending on final preparations and approvals.
Officials also say the concept could become permanent if the pilot phase proves successful, but any long-term implementation would require additional approvals and public comment opportunities.
City leaders emphasize that feedback from residents and business owners will play a role in shaping the final design before any permanent changes are made.
