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Main Street Board proposes open container area
City Council will have to wait until May 7 to vote on a proposal that could change the landscape of historic downtown Elgin.
Kirsta Marx, president of the Main Street Board, came forward during the April 2 council meeting with plans for establishing a new Depot District. The proposed social area would allow the consumption of alcoholic beverages outside of serving businesses throughout the year.
“It invites people to stay and play, and when people are staying and playing, they’re also paying – and when they are staying, playing and paying, then we are investing in our community and our town,” said Marx.
Board leaders and members developed the plan by following the models of sister cities like Fredericksburg, Georgetown and Taylor. They witnessed that these social districts enhance the climate and atmosphere of host cities, improving quality of life and economic growth, according to the team.
“It’s not a party district, but it is social, like having Sip, Shop and Stroll on the daily. Downtown is where it’s at,” added Marx.
The district’s area would stretch down Main Street from City Hall to Central Avenue, looping in businesses that would be impacted and supported by the change.
Adult beverage consumption would be allowed within the premises from 10 a.m. to midnight, daily. Drinks purchased inside bars and restaurants would be allowed outside in plastic containers and must be consumed and disposed of within area parameters. Participating vendors and borders would be clearly identifiable with signage, said the president.
The Main St reet Board worked with Elgin Police Chief Chris Noble and City Manager Thomas Mattis to confirm that Depot District would be family- friendly and not have a negative impact on alcohol- related instances or crime. Data gathered from previous Sip, Shop and Stroll events supports this claim, according to Marx.
The board aims to create a space where residents, business owners and visitors can gather with a sense of belonging, promote a vibrant community and attract new businesses and employment opportunities.
“Bottom line, we, as Main Street Board and citizens most importantly, and utilizers of this district and this community, we believe this is good for our town,” said Marx.
Depot District has the potential to breathe new life into historic downtown and draw more foot traffic, according to the board.
