South Street has long been a place of community and camaraderie in Philadelphia, and Bob & Barbara’s Lounge has been a cornerstone of the neighborhood since 1969. However, a recent battle with the city over a road resurfacing project has left the beloved bar and restaurant facing a challenging road ahead. Despite having invested $35,000 in a streetery that was initially approved by the city, Bob & Barbara’s was blindsided when they were informed that the structure would need to be removed due to the upcoming road work.
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“We wouldn’t have built the thing if we knew that there was an upcoming road resurfacing project,” said Oskar Duva, one of the bar’s managers. The streetery had become a lifeline for the business during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing it to offer outdoor dining when indoor options were restricted. However, changes in the city’s guidelines for streeteries meant that Bob & Barbara’s original structure no longer met the requirements and had to be dismantled.
Despite following the city’s regulations and obtaining all necessary approvals, Bob & Barbara’s found themselves in a difficult situation when the road resurfacing project was announced. The streetery, which was built to accommodate customers and create a welcoming outdoor space, now had to be removed within 48 hours of receiving notice from the city.
An update to the guidelines
Bob & Barbara’s, known for inventing the citywide special, faced a new challenge as they navigated the city’s evolving guidelines for streeteries. The bar’s new streetery was designed to comply with the regulations set forth by the city, but a lack of communication about the upcoming road resurfacing project left them with a costly and frustrating situation.
Despite efforts to appeal the city’s decision and seek alternatives, Bob & Barbara’s ultimately faced a court ruling that required the removal of the streetery. The bar’s investment in the structure, which included built-in stools and a solid bartop, now faced an uncertain future as the city moved forward with its road resurfacing plans.
‘Unwilling to compromise’
As the deadline for removing the streetery approached, Bob & Barbara’s expressed disappointment in the city’s lack of flexibility and understanding. While other businesses faced similar challenges, the bar found itself in a difficult position due to the timing of the road resurfacing project and the lack of communication from the city.
Despite attempts to find a resolution and seek assistance with the removal and reconstruction of the streetery, Bob & Barbara’s remained at an impasse with the city. The financial burden of dismantling and rebuilding the structure added to the bar’s challenges and left them with few options moving forward.
Looking ahead, Bob & Barbara’s hopes that their experience will prompt the city to reevaluate its approach to supporting businesses and consider the impact of its policies on establishments like theirs. Despite the setbacks, the bar remains committed to serving its community and finding a way forward in the face of adversity.