• Draft guidelines for the program have been posted on DOMI's website (above).
• DOMI will review new applications when the final guidance is posted at the end of April.
• There is no fee for the Outdoor Dining and Retail Application for 2022.
• Reminder: Other approvals from the City of Pittsburgh Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections (PLI), Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD), Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB), or others may still be required.
• Concurrently, the URA is preparing to disperse American Rescue Plan funding for outdoor dining and retail structures; they have hired a local firm for technical assistance and to begin creating easy plug and play templates for community use.

A report published by Wells Fargo economists found that access to child care has been shown to boost labor force participation among mothers. For employers struggling to find workers, improving child care options for parents means a larger and more experienced workforce to draw upon. Research by the Heckman Equation Project also found that investing in early childhood development strengthens the economy. 

PRLA has partnered with Start Strong PA to learn more about how access to child care is specifically impacting hospitality sector employers and their employees. 

Operators are encouraged to share the employee survey with their staff, so we can gain insights into their experiences with child care access.  

PRLA is looking for at least 30 operators and 30 employees to complete the surveys before April 15. Results will be used to encourage more investment in child care programs so that parents can re-enter the workforce.