Ypsilanti is set to open its own social district, allowing consumption of alcoholic beverages in certain designated, outdoor spaces. The Ypsilanti City Council approved a resolution for a social district in Depot Town at its Dec. 9, 2025, meeting.
A social district is a designated area in which patrons can consume alcoholic beverages in certain common areas outside of the walls or patio spaces of a licensed establishment, said Elize Jekabson, executive director of Ypsilanti’s Downtown Development Authority. Certain rules apply in the social district. For example, only alcohol purchased from participating establishments in the approved drinking cups can be consumed in the district, said the presentation. Cups may not be reused.
“Sidewalks and crosswalks within the borders, the Depot Town Pedestrian Alleyway and the Freighthouse Plaza are considered common areas,” stated a report about the social district presented to the council members. “During street closures, the common areas include the closed off areas of the street.”…