Niles City Council members have approved plans to close a portion of North Second Street for an outdoor dining and event area. The vote, which took place on Monday, followed a half-hour of public input.

The decision permits the transformation of North Second Street from Main Street to the alley into a communal space.

Leader Publications reports supporters, including Downtown Development Authority/Niles Main Street members, championed the initiative, while neighbors raised concerns about safety and other issues.