FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) \u2014 Downtown Fresno visitors will soon be able to take alcoholic drinks with them as they walk around during certain special events, under a new city ordinance creating designated \u201centertainment zones.\u201d<\/p>\n
Fresno city leaders unanimously approved the change this month, allowing event hosts to request a permit that would let people carry alcoholic drinks within three different zones downtown during permitted events. <\/p>\n
Downtown Fresno visitors will soon be able to take alcoholic drinks with them as they walk around during certain special events, under a new city ordinance creating designated \u201centertainment zones” (FOX26).<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
City leaders said the goal is to promote community and support local businesses, though some neighbors and workers have raised concerns about safety and past problems tied to alcohol. <\/p>\n
\u201cThose who are in the area that are carrying a cup would be required to have a wristband and some kind of identification showing that that particular person had been IDed so that there is an understanding of who is allowed to carry a cup within the right-of-way,” Jennifer Clark. Fresno director of planning and development, said. <\/p>\n
Some neighbors said the ordinance could help downtown. <\/p>\n
\u201cI think it’s gonna be great overall, because it’s going to give our police officers hours. It’s going to give businesses money. It’s going to bring the culture together.\\,” Delilah Melendez, a Fresno neighbor, said. “It’s just overall a great experience. I think it’s positive.\u201d<\/p>\n
Others opposed the plan, writing letters to city leaders that cited violent memories from past events such as \u201cArtHop\u201d and deaths caused by drunk drivers.<\/p>\n