PORTLAND (AP) — A battle is brewing in Portland between restaurants putting tables on the sidewalks to satisfy customer demand for alfresco dining and those who say the sidewalks are being impeded.

Sight-impaired pedestrians, wheelchair users, stroller-pushing parents and other walkers have lodged official complaints about restaurants overextending into the sidewalk space in violation of their permits and city ordinances.

Bud Buzzell, a 72-year-old sight-impaired resident, told the Portland Press Herald (http://bit.ly/1uJT9JB ) the narrowed sidewalks near his home are becoming an increasingly frustrating and dangerous maze.

Restaurant owners said outdoor dining is popular and helps drive up business. Officials with a downtown business group say they are attempting to strike a proper balance.

City Manager Mark Rees said during a recent city council meeting that the city takes the matter very seriously.