Hickory’s Social District Inspires New Hampshire Legislation
In a captivating revival, Hickory, North Carolina, transformed its downtown area into a bustling social district, where patrons can now enjoy outdoor drinking without the worry of vacant storefronts. Drew Cline, a former local and executive director of the Josiah Bartlett Center for Public Policy, noted the remarkable change during his recent visit. The social district, which allows alcohol consumption in designated public spaces, has significantly revitalized the downtown, enhancing both foot traffic and local business morale.
Inspired by Hickory’s success, Cline approached New Hampshire state Rep. Bill Boyd to propose similar legislation. Boyd, a Republican from Merrimack, based New Hampshire’s House Bill 467 on North Carolina’s model. This bill, now approved by the Senate, empowers towns and cities in New Hampshire to create their own social districts, pending local council approval. It outlines operational guidelines to ensure responsible enjoyment of alcohol outdoors.
Notably, officials in North Carolina reported no increase in public drunkenness or crime, a trend Cline attributes to effective planning, including the addition of trash and recycling receptacles. The New Hampshire Municipal Association supports the bill, describing it as a beneficial private-public partnership.
Simultaneously, lawmakers are pursuing other liberalization efforts regarding alcohol regulations. House Bill 81 seeks to allow patrons to take drinks into restrooms, aiming to combat the risk of date-rape drugs. Additionally, House Bill 276, which proposed a new liquor license for bars to sell alcohol without requiring food service, has been tabled by the state Senate.
With these legislative moves, New Hampshire aims to enhance its social landscape, offering residents and visitors more freedom and safety in their drinking experiences.
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