More of Asheboro could be annexed in downtown Zoo City Social District

Dean-Paul Stephens, The Courier-Tribune
·2 min read

Months after establishing a Social District in downtown Asheboro, the city council took initial steps that could result in the district's expansion.

City officials directed staff to come forward with an expansion proposal during their Nov. 10 regular session after Amy Rudisill and Al LaPrade of Downtown Asheboro Inc. detailed an expansion request.

"We have received a request...from JB Davis at Farm at Little River," Rudisill said.

Downtown Asheboro Inc. played a significant role in the creation of the Zoo City Social District, an area in Downtown Asheboro that allows for public consumption of alcohol during certain times and at participating restaurants, in the hopes of bolstering tourism.

Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., individuals 21 years and older are allowed to walk with alcoholic beverages, in designated containers, within the district.

The boundaries of the district included W Salisbury Street, to the North; W Academy Street, to the South; Fayetteville Street, to the East; and S Church Street to the West. JB Davis is the owner of a property located at 130 South Church St. and has requested the district's Church Street boundary to encompass this property.

More:Asheboro to allow limited public alcohol use in designated area

Prior to approving the expansion request, city officials discussed the district. The district went into effect on May 19. LaPrade said, since that time, Downtown Asheboro Inc. has not been made aware of any complaints.

The district's new boundaries have not been finalized. LaPrade suggested that they could accommodate other businesses that want to be included.

"We could do it piecemeal if there is no one else," LaPrade said.

Officials added that businesses on Fayetteville Street could be looking into taking part.

Mayor David Smith said that the district does not supersede local and state drinking laws.

"Our Social District does not absolve people from following the alcohol rules," said Mayor David Smith. "I have seen them... get into a car with drinks, kids in the backseat. You can't fix stupid."

This article originally appeared on The Courier-Tribune: City leaders consider expanding Zoo City Social District in Asheboro