Following Huntington’s lead as the pioneer West Virginia city permitting outdoor to-go alcohol in designated zones, Charleston is keen on making a similar move.
The state saw the introduction of the PODA legislation, which stands for Private Outdoor Designated Areas, where alcohol can be enjoyed. Earlier this year, West Virginia embraced the change, leading to the State Alcohol Beverage Control Administration green-lighting permits for a couple of Huntington-based bars.
Dr. Frank Annie co-sponsored the bill currently in the Ordinance and Rules Committee. The bill seeks to grant a similar permit for the Capitol City, outlining potential PODA zones.
“Outdoor to-go alcohol services offer a unique and innovative way to support our local businesses, while also providing a refreshing take on social interaction,” Annie said. “This flexibility not only encourages responsible drinking, but also contributes to a vibrant, diverse, and resilient local economy.”
The outlined areas create more control designating where patrons can only consume their drinks. Furthermore, patrons will need to acquire a distinct plastic cup from the bars in these areas, which might be color-coded or carry the PODA emblem.
Guidelines for these zones will be clearly communicated through signage at all entry and exit points of the PODAs. This would allow a patron of a restaurant such as Fife Street Brewing to purchase a drink and, with a specially marked cup, walk down the alley before going to another establishment.
This legislation enjoys bipartisan backing, garnering support not just from the legislative chambers but also resonating with the majority of council members and the community.
“We’ve honestly gotten a very positive response from the community, and local business leaders are excited about the establishment of these zones,” Annie added. “This is a win-win for our businesses, offering a collaborative way to attract more patrons downtown.”
Chad Robinson, Ward 20 Council member and Ordinance and Rules Committee Chair emphasized the importance of this move for the city’s commercial hub on WCHS Radio’s 580 LIVE, stating, “This is something important for our downtown businesses. Not only for our downtown businesses, but the PODAs that are drafted in the current bill are City Center Slack Plaza, Elk City, Bridge Road, and the Capitol Market.”
Ordinance and Rules Committee members including Dr. Frank Annie are scheduled to convene with downtown establishments on Thursday, September 28, at 9 a.m. in Adelphia Sports Bar. This meeting aims to deliberate on the draft and integrate any necessary modifications.
A comprehensive meeting with the full council is set for Monday, October 2, to review the refined ordinance.