Getting Social
Brooklyn Arts tries out social districts
One downtown neighborhood tested out letting patrons walk around with drinks, and it turns out, a lot of people enjoy sipping and strolling.
The Brooklyn Arts District piloted a social district on three Saturdays in February during which adults could visit participating eateries, bars, and breweries between noon and 5 p.m. and take drinks to go to walk around outside in the designated area.
An estimated 8,000-9,000 people showed up over the Saturdays, says Brooklyn Café co-owner TARA ENGLISH, who along with SCOTT WAGNER, of Goat & Compass, represented The Brooklyn Arts District Collective in going to city officials to ask for the social district trial run.
A state law in 2021 allowed for the districts.
“Every participating establishment saw record-breaking sales and provided a much-needed leg up during this winter season,” English says. “There will be another city council meeting where we request a permanent social district.”
To view more of photographer Madeline Gray’s work, go to madelinegrayphoto.com.
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