To Revitalize Downtowns, Cities Create Designated ‘Drinking Zones’

While most of the United States has strict laws against ‘open containers’ of alcohol outside of bars and restaurants, some cities are experimenting with the creation of ‘drinking zones’ that allow patrons to carry drinks around certain designated commercial areas. “The hope is that by allowing people to grab a drink and linger, they’ll spend more time and money downtown.”

In some cases, states such as North Carolina and Ohio are relaxing regulations to let cities create these zones, explains Kevin Hardy in Stateline. “They aim to revitalize downtown cores hollowed out by the changing nature of retail and the post-pandemic loss of office workers.”

“Aside from bringing foot traffic to shops and restaurants, officials say the success of the new districts reveals the need to update antiquated liquor laws that long banned public consumption in most places to try to reduce public intoxication and drunken driving.”

Hardy describes efforts in several cities and states, noting that, in most cases, the districts face little local opposition. Meanwhile, business owners report seeing increased activity.