Consideration and Approval of Street Closure(s):  Orpheum Theater's 99th birthday block party

The City of Flagstaff Office of Community Events brings forward requests for street closures on behalf of the applicant.  Staff requires the event producer to conduct outreach and encourages them to address any concerns that the community may have regarding this event.  As a courtesy, the Office of Community Events produces a monthly newsletter for downtown residents and business owners to inform them of upcoming City Council meetings, street closures and events at Heritage Square.

While street closures need to be managed appropriately given the change in traffic patterns for local businesses, community events support the vibrancy of the economy and downtown events are supported by the Downtown Business Alliance (DBA).

REGIONAL PLAN:
Economic Development:
Goal ED.3. Regional economic development partners support the start-up, retention, and expansion of existing business enterprises.
Goal ED.6. Tourism will continue to provide a year-round source for the community, while expanding specialized tourist resources and activities.
Goal ED.7. Continue to promote and enhance Flagstaff's unique sense of place as an economic development driver.

Council has approved various street closures in the downtown area in the past, however this is the first request from the Orpheum for a block party street closure.

- Approve the request as submitted.
- Deny the request to close the proposed downtown street.

The Orpheum and the Downtown Business Alliance recently requested this street closure for a 99th birthday block party and celebration for the Orpheum Theater.  It is a free event open to the public and will include live music, kids activities and a small classic Volkswagen car show. The event will run from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Orpheum would like the community and visitors to help celebrate 99 years of quality entertainment in downtown Flagstaff.

By allowing the Orpheum Theater's block party street closure as an exception to the special event permit regulations regarding the full closure of Aspen Avenue between Beaver Street and Leroux Street, the City is providing a safe location for a community event.

The current special event permit regulations do not allow for the full closure of one-way streets in north downtown. Deviations from this regulation have been approved by City Council on a case-by-case basis. The Flagstaff Fire Department requires that there be a fire lane and access to all hydrant and water hook-ups on the streets.

The Orpheum Theater is a historical entertainment venue in the heart of downtown Flagstaff that has been providing quality entertainment to Flagstaff for 99 years. Having a community birthday party to celebrate its success brings vibrancy and visitors to the downtown area and generates business for shops and restaurants.

Inform: The Office of Community Events produces a monthly newsletter for downtown businesses and residents. The newsletter contains event information regarding upcoming City Council meetings, Heritage Square activities and street closures.  Notice of the Council meeting will be included in the July newsletter.

Involve: The Orpheum Theater is required to conduct outreach to all businesses and residents affected by the street closure.

- Approve the request as submitted which will provide a safe place for the community to celebrate the Orpheum Theater's 99th year.
- Deny the request to close the proposed downtown street. Closure of a street in the downtown area has the potential to impact parking and businesses due to the change in traffic flow.