Anoka plans Minnesota's 1st "social district," where public drinking will be permitted
ANOKA, Minn. -- The Halloween Capital of the World may soon become the public drinking capital of Minnesota.
Starting Sept. 6, the pilot program for the first "social district" in Minnesota will begin in the northern Twin Cities suburb.
State Rep. Zach Stephenson, who represents Anoka and Coon Rapids, says the Anoka Social District will start as a one-month trial run.
"It's just going to be a great atmosphere on summer evenings in Downtown Anoka," Stephenson said.
In just two weeks, the Anoka Social District will take over downtown streets like Second Avenue and Jackson Street.
Within certain boundaries, people will be able to drink beer, wine and cocktails from licensed businesses on downtown sidewalks. And when there's special events, they can take to the streets.
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"We've been really proud of historic Downtown Anoka for a lot of years, and been talking about how we can draw more people here and really showcase it," Stephenson said.
Rep. Stephenson helped it happen by writing the change into the 2022 liquor reform law.
The city of Anoka has spent the past year planning the rollout, alongside local businesses.
"It's very exciting. It gives Anoka a chance to take the first shot at doing this in Minnesota," he said.
While a few people who spoke with WCCO downtown Wednesday worry over drunkenness and arrests, most seem to approve.
"I think it's a great idea. It's limited to an area, and why shouldn't you be able to drink out in the streets? You can go to the State Fair and have a beer and walk all over all sorts of streets," said Hilary Roe, who was visiting Anoka from Maple Grove.
Employees at 10K Brewing on Second Avenue said they plan to more than double their outdoor seating.
"We have pretty limited space inside the taproom, but we have a lot of people that want to come out and drink in the park or even down by the river," said Jesse Hauf, owner of 10K Brewing.
Hauf said he understands the concerns.
"We'll give you a special cup, that way we can identify that that actually came from the Social District, it's not somebody just bringing alcohol downtown and trying to cause trouble," Hauf said.
Rep. Stephenson said if all goes well, this may expand to other cities.
"I think there's probably a lot of people who will be watching it closely," he said.
Residents can ring in the new rules with the Rockin' on the Rum concert at Riverfront Memorial Park Sept. 6. The pilot program will last through Oct. 7. Grab-and-go drinking will be allowed from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week.
Businesses serving to-go drinks will have a window cling displayed, the city said, and other businesses will have one displaying whether or not they allow customers to carry drinks inside.
After the pilot program ends, the city will gather information to present to the city council and state officials.
