A Pedlet is an extended structure that is installed by the business to extend its footprint to the sidewalk and/or to the on-street parking spaces. Normally, a pedlet structure is made of wooden fixtures and furniture that are installed seasonally between the months of May and October. However, a pedlet can be made of more durable material should the business owner choose to. A pedlet is also known as parklet nationally and perhaps globally.

A pedlet encourages extending the business’s seating or merchandise onto the sidewalk or portion of the street to create an urban setting where patrons can browse or consume goods in the outdoors. This practice: (i) attracts new customers and businesses to Downtown Bozeman; (ii) stimulates new, private investment and economic development; (iii) positively impacts the marketability and perception of Downtown Bozeman; and (iv) promotes commercial revitalization and creates a communal destination.

The Pedlet project is designed to give businesses with limited sidewalk space a chance to expand outdoors, all while keeping downtown walkable, accessible, and full of energy. “Side-street businesses in Downtown Bozeman have been asking for creative solutions to expand their footprint outdoors,” said Ellie Staley, Executive Director of the Downtown Bozeman Partnership. “The Pedlet program helps us meet that need while also keeping pedestrian traffic safe and accessible.”

Similar projects have popped up in other Montana cities over the years, and now Bozeman joins the list with its own pilot program. For this first season, the Downtown Bozeman Partnership covered the parking permits, while Bitterroot Bistro secured the licenses needed to make it happen.

As the pilot continues, the program may grow to other locations, creating even more opportunities for outdoor dining and community connection in the heart of downtown!