New restaurants in Duluth mean new look at alcohol ordinance

Changes coming to downtown Duluth mean need for new look at alcohol ordinance. Photo by Karen Huppertz for the AJC

Changes coming to downtown Duluth mean need for new look at alcohol ordinance. Photo by Karen Huppertz for the AJC

Due to the anticipated opening of new restaurants in downtown Duluth, the city is considering updates to the current alcohol sales ordinance.

In talks with several developers, Duluth’s Alcohol Review Board is recommending adding a downtown “entertainment district” within the Central Business District. This area would allow the public to possess and consume alcoholic beverages in plastic cups near restaurants where alcoholic beverages are purchased from a licensed establishment.

Restrictions would prohibit possession or consumption of alcohol in the playground at Taylor Park and the Duluth Cemetery. In addition, the public would not be allowed to possess and consume alcoholic beverages not purchased from a licensed establishment located within the CBD district.

The Duluth City Council will vote on the recommended changes May 9.