A new ordinance that aims to allow street drinking at permitted downtown Fresno events has some residents concerned it will lead to an uptick in drunk driving and public safety issues.
The one-year pilot plan establishes three “entertainment zones” along Fulton Street in Fresno’s Brewery District, which was initially introduced at a May 21 council meeting. To conduct an event that allows street drinking, organizers would need to obtain a special permit from the city. After someone gets a drink from an established bar during one of these events, they would be able to enjoy it outside within the zone’s boundary.
The ordinance came back to the council for reintroduction on June 4, due to the zone boundaries having shifted slightly at the previous council meeting, where several residents spoke out in opposition…