Alexander City Downtown Entertainment District Raises Debate
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The Alexander City is considering a proposal to turn part of downtown into a designated entertainment district. That would allow people to carry alcohol outside licensed businesses as long as they remain within the district.
They would not be allowed to bring in outside alcohol.
Supporters say it will be an economic boost to downtown and help the area become a cultural and arts event destination.
“They have been successful at generating energy, synergy, putting people on the streets. If there are people on the streets, they come in and they shop,” said Henry Foy of Cafe 128 and Emporium Wine.
Some churches leaders have raised concerns about the plan, including Pastor Rick Levell of Marshall Street Church of God, who told the City Council there were ten main factors that should be clarified.
“I just want to make sure the areas designated, that there’s going to be plenty of security, someone to take care of the trash that will be created, underage drinking, because it’s in the downtown center where a lot of kids go through,” said Levell.
The City Council is set to take up the issue at its March 2nd council meeting.
