Participating businesses ready for Downtown Rockford Entertainment District Friday
ROCKFORD — The city of Rockford kicked off a new pilot program Friday that allows people to carry open containers of alcohol downtown.
Businesses participating in the downtown Rockford Entertainment District are excited for the new open container concept.
“I have customers that ask us all the time if they are able to take their drink to go, this gives them the luxury of being able to walk around and it be done legally,” says Ambiance Cuisine Catering and Cocktails Owner Quentisha Hannah.
She hopes it brings more business.
“Especially during the summer months, when people want to come downtown and be outside, they wanna enjoy a cocktail and enjoy the weather,” says Hannah.
Lima-Mar Restaurant owner, Ross Terry, says he is all for the new rules.
“Why not? I don’t think that there should be any issues. I’ve seen it work very well in other cities,” says Terry.
He says this is a step toward making Rockford an attraction.
“Bring in potentially new businesses, as it tries to grow more of a destination point.”
It’s only a pilot program now, but restaurants agree starting it this late in the year will help city leaders work out any flaws before spring.
“Everybody’s gonna work together as a whole to run as smoothly as possible,” Hannah adds.
While the Entertainment District is just taking flight, those in participation think bringing in more foot traffic will be a positive for the city of Rockford.
“People, the public coming down more and feeling safe and enjoying the different restaurants in the downtown area all just benefits everybody,” Terry says.
Each downtown business has designated signs outside that let people know whether they are participating or not.
All drinks have to be carried in the designated ‘River District’ cups.
Click here for the full list of participating businesses.
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