The proposed resolution is to continue a pilot open container program in certain portions of the Victorian Neighborhood, Thomas Square Neighborhood and Forsyth Park due to COVID-19.

On December 5, 2019, the Pilot Open Container Zone for certain portions of the Victorian Neighborhood Association was approved by Mayor and Aldermen for a period of 90-days commencing on January 1, 2020 and ending on March 31, 2020. The initial zone included the area from the centerline of Park Avenue between the centerlines of Whitaker Street and Drayton Street and along Bull Street from the centerlines of Park Avenue to Anderson Lane.

Yet, during the pilot program, federal, state and local emergency health declarations were issued due to COVID-19, and the pilot program expired. To allow for further evaluation and provide greater opportunities for social distancing, the following zones were approved by Mayor and Aldermen on June 25, 2020 for a period of 90-days:

Zone 1: The Victorian Neighborhood to include the area from the centerline of Park Avenue between the centerline of Whitaker Street to the centerline of Drayton Street and along Bull Street from the centerline of Park Avenue to the centerline of Anderson Lane;

Zone 2: The Thomas Square Neighborhood to include the area from the centerline of Anderson Lane to the centerline of Victory Drive along Bull Street to include DeSoto Avenue between 40th Street and Maupas Lane;

Zone 3: Forsyth Park to include the area from the centerline of Hall Street between Drayton Street and Whitaker Street to the centerline of Park Avenue and within Forsyth Park to include the northern portion of the Fort at Forsyth Park;

The City frequently uses temporary programs to determine if a concept should be pursued. For example, parking was adjusted along Bay Street and lanes were reduced along Whitaker Street (Bay to Broughton) for a trial period. After reviewing the data from these pilot efforts as well as assessing community survey results, the City determined that these changes were not advantageous to the community, and the programs were terminated.

Due to COVID-19, a proposal is presented to extend the pilot program for another 90-days starting on November 12, 2020 and ending on February 12, 2021. Following the termination of the program, staff will engage the surrounding neighborhoods and community for feedback and submit a report evaluating the Open Container Zone expansion. Mayor and Aldermen will determine if an amendment to Code of Ordinances, Part 6, Article H, Division 3, Alcoholic Beverage Ordinance, Sec. 6-1214 is needed to expand the Open Container Zone. Language has been included in the resolution to discontinue the program by the City if any issues arise during the trial.