Staff photo by Clay Schuldt The first downtown parklet came to Minnesota Street this week. The parklet takes up two parking stalls in front of MN Eis.

NEW ULM– Downtown Minnesota Street got its first parklet this week.

Located in two parking spaces in front of MN Eis, the parklet serves as a sidewalk extension that provides additional space amenities for people using the street. The MN Eis parklet will allow greater seating space for customers to gather during the summer months with an ice cream treat.

New Ulm approved the creation of a parklet program last year. MN Eis was the first business to apply for a parklet. The applicant required at least 60% of first-floor proprietors to sign a petition in support.

The program allows parklets to be placed along Minnesota Street between 4th North and 3rd South streets.

Parklets are also allowed on side streets between Broadway and Minnesota Street including 3rd North, 2nd North, 1st North, Center Street, 1st South, 2nd South and 3rd South.