LEXINGTON, N.C. — Lexington is moving forward with its plans for a social district, which will allow people to sip and stroll uptown with alcoholic beverages.
The plan has been in the works since June 2023 and could go into effect this March once everything is set in place.
"I believe it’s going to bring more people out, and want to explore just the uptown area, the depot, districts, and really help bring more people into these businesses," said Josh Monk, Planning and Services Manager for the City of Lexington.
This month, the city began accepting applications from ABC-permitted businesses that want to be part of the social district and fall within the map boundaries.
Sophie's Cork and Ale plans to participate.
"I think it's going to be great. I think more people are just going to come out and feel free to walk around, and enjoy a beer. Enjoy a beverage on nice weather days, and everything just like the barbecue festival," said John Wilson, Chef and Owner of Sophie's Cork and Ale.
The Lexington Social District will operate seven days a week from 10 a.m. until midnight. It will be managed by the city's Office of Business and Community Development.
People who have lived in Lexington their whole lives, like Wendy Tussey, believe this will help the city grow.
Tussey explained, "we need to bring in as many possibilities to our town as we can because our town has changed a lot in the last 30 years, and I want to see it continue to grow and prosper.”
The Lexington Police Department will provide security and enforcement in the social district.
Permitted businesses will be able to serve two beers, wine, or one liquor drink to one person at a time.
Businesses that are part of the social district will display logos that look like this:
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