Fayetteville approves new drinking districts

Fayetteville has amended its alcohol ordinance to allow outdoor open-container beverage consumption within two new entertainment districts.

The City Council voted 4-0-1 (with Paul Oddo absent) last Thursday to establish an area within the central downtown district that encompasses the Old Courthouse Square and areas west of it between LaFayette Avenue and Stonewall Avenue, including the new City Hall complex as well as hotels and restaurants in the vicinity. The second entertainment district will be inside the Pinewood Forest mixed-use development.

Sales will be limited to specific 16-ounce cups, and possession or consumption are still subject to existing age restrictions. Businesses have the option to not allow alcohol on their premises, and the police department will monitor both areas for safety and compliance. Mayor Edward Johnson said the city reserves the right to rescind the open container provision if it results in negative consequences.