ROME– Downtown Rome’s public alcohol-consumption program now operates seven days a week following an expansion approved by city commissioners.
The City of Rome announced the updated program Friday, July 31. Public consumption is now permitted within the designated downtown district daily from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m.
Previously, the program operated only Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays during those hours.
The Rome City Commission approved the expanded days and boundaries July 13. The amendment followed a recommendation from the Rome Alcohol Control Commission and an earlier reading before the City Commission.
Expanded Area Reaches Hotels and Amphitheater
The updated district includes additional areas along West First and West Second streets. The expansion connects the district with the Hampton Inn and Days Inn.
A boundary adjustment also adds the Chuck Sennett III Memorial Amphitheater near the Rome-Floyd County Library.
The city has published an updated map of the Downtown Public Consumption Area. Anyone carrying an alcoholic beverage outside a participating establishment must remain within the mapped boundaries.
The expansion does not create unrestricted public drinking throughout downtown.
Alcoholic beverages must be purchased from a participating downtown business. Businesses must serve the drinks in an approved clear plastic or aluminum cup displaying an official Downtown Development Authority sticker.
Outside alcohol and drinks served in unapproved containers are not permitted under the program.
Existing safety requirements remain in effect. According to the city’s previously published program rules, drinks are not permitted in parking decks or parking lots. Individual businesses may also decide whether customers can bring approved drinks inside their establishments.
Commission Approves Change in Divided Vote
The City Commission approved the amendment by a 5-3 vote, according to WRGA News’ coverage of the July 13 meeting.
Commissioners Elaina Beeman, Wayne Robinson, and Craig McDaniel voted against the change.
Beeman raised concerns about allowing public alcohol consumption near places used by children and families, particularly the library and nearby amphitheater.
Commissioner Harry Brock, who serves as the commission’s representative on the Rome Downtown Development Authority, supported the expansion. Brock said the change would help downtown provide amenities that visitors may encounter in other communities.
He pointed specifically to people traveling to Rome for tournaments and other events.
The city said the broader program is intended to support downtown restaurants, retailers, hotels, attractions, and community events.
Program Began as 2021 Trial
Rome’s program began as a trial in August 2021. At that time, public consumption was permitted Thursdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m.
The Rome Downtown Development Authority said it studied similar programs in other Georgia communities before launching the trial.
The original district included designated sidewalks, green spaces, and bridges. Approved businesses served drinks in specially marked containers, including recyclable aluminum cups donated for the trial period.
City officials later continued the program under the Thursday-through-Saturday schedule.
The 2026 amendment represents its largest expansion by adding four more operating days and extending the district to additional downtown destinations.
Residents and visitors can review the current rules, participating businesses, and district boundaries through the City of Rome and Downtown Development Authority.
RELATED ARTICLES:
U.S. Marshals Seek Two Men Wanted on Murder Charges, Last Seen in Rome
You must be logged in to post a comment.