Santa Monica City Council is considering a proposal to allow public drinking at Third Street Promenade to revitalize the struggling pedestrian mall.
The plan allows visitors to purchase drinks from local bars and restaurants and roam in designated areas from 8am to 2am daily.
Andrew Tomouth, CEO of Downtown Santa Monica, supports the initiative.
“I think that’s a great idea,” Thomas told KTLA. “It really helped to liven up the area.”
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However, the proposal raises concerns about the impact on public drunks and the family-friendly atmosphere at the promenade.
Other revitalization ideas include lower rents to fill commercial vacancy and increased security to make shoppers feel safer and enhance street entertainment.
If approved, Santa Monica will be the first city in California to establish a “drink and shopping” zone.
The city council will discuss the proposal in the coming weeks.
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