Starting Monday, traffic will be reduced to one lane along a stretch of Atlantic Avenue in Bixby Knolls as the city continues its “open streets” initiative to help businesses struggling amid closures due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The lane closure between East Claiborne and East Armando drives will allow businesses to accommodate more seating outdoors, but also reduce speeding in the area, according to officials who spoke during a recent Zoom meeting announcing the closure to the public.

Northbound and southbound traffic will be limited to one travel lane on Atlantic Avenue starting early Monday, according to public works.

Businesses on the east side of of Atlantic Avenue will be able to utilize sidewalks to expand their space. The west side of the main avenue will feature angled parking to increase parking by 25%, public works officials said.

This temporary lane closure is expected to continue through the end of the year.

Other parts of the city, including Downtown Long Beach along Pine Avenue and Second Street in Belmont Shore, have seen success with allowing businesses to erect parklets with enclosed seating for dining. Some have even called for the closures to be permanent.

Currently eating establishments are only allowed to serve customers outdoors, with other safety precautions in place, to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.