Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade to Allow Outdoor Alcohol Consumption

Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade to Allow Outdoor Alcohol Consumption

Santa Monica’s city council has unanimously approved an ordinance permitting outdoor alcohol consumption on Third Street Promenade. This initiative aims to revitalize the downtown area and support local businesses by attracting more visitors and enhancing the nightlife experience.

Details of the Ordinance

The ordinance allows patrons to consume alcoholic beverages purchased from licensed vendors on public streets, sidewalks, and rights-of-way along Third Street between Wilshire Boulevard and Broadway. Consumption is restricted to beverages purchased from licensed vendors within the designated area, and bringing outside alcohol is prohibited. The initial rollout will permit outdoor drinking on Fridays and Saturdays between 6 p.m. and 2 a.m., with plans to expand to seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. as the program progresses.

Community and Business Reactions

Local business owners and residents have expressed support for the ordinance, viewing it as a positive step toward revitalizing the area and boosting the local economy. Mayor Pro Tem Caroline Torosis emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “We’re trying to revitalize our downtown core, we’re trying to support our small businesses, and we’re trying to bring fun and joy and vibrancy back to the Promenade.”

Implementation Timeline

The city plans to implement the ordinance in mid-June, with the initial phase focusing on weekends. As the program proves successful, the city intends to expand the hours and days of operation to further enhance the area’s appeal and economic activity.

Sources

• A bit of Vegas is coming to Santa Monica after outdoor drinking is approved for Third Street Promenade | LAist