Glasgow eyes entertainment destination center status to boost downtown economy
City seeks ABC license to expand alcohol consumption in downtown areas
GLASGOW, Ky. (WBKO) – Leaders in Glasgow are optimistic that a newly passed ordinance will help revitalize downtown by promoting local businesses, boosting tourism, and creating a vibrant community hub.
City council members approved the measure this week, establishing an entertainment destination center. This would allow alcohol to be sold and consumed within designated outdoor areas, aiming to draw more foot traffic to downtown shops and restaurants.
“We want, anytime, people to enjoy Glasgow. We want to enhance the area and their experience here,” said April Russell, city administrator. “We want to attract new businesses. We want to strengthen the ones we have in this area.”
The proposed EDC area extends beyond the downtown square, reaching additional parts of the city to create a broader zone for public gatherings and alcohol consumption.
Currently, alcohol consumption is restricted to a business’s property. At Yancey’s Gastropub, for example, drinks must stay inside or within a designated area.
Events like Sip, Shop and Stroll require special permits to allow alcohol in certain downtown areas. The new ordinance will expand that, allowing people to walk freely with drinks within the designated EDC zone during specific times.
Glasgow Police Chief Guy Howie explained that under the new EDC designation, someone who buys alcohol at the Plaza Theatre could take their drink with them and walk to Yancey’s Gastropub without breaking the law.
“They could take their cup of drink with them, walk through the downtown area to Yancey’s, without being in violation of the law,” Howie said.
Howie believes the police department won’t be burdened by the changes, noting that events downtown already allow people to walk around with alcohol.
Businesses can post signage to indicate they won’t allow alcohol on their premises, Russell said. The EDC regulations will be in effect during set hours, Thursday through Friday.
Support from the Kentucky Economic Cabinet and state and local tourism agencies helped drive Glasgow’s push for the designation.
Mayor Henry Royse said the designation will support the city’s goal of a “downtown renaissance,” prioritizing local businesses, culture and community growth.
Councilmember Freddie Norris was the only one to oppose the ordinance vote. The minister and pharmacist expressed the belief that there are other effective ways to attract people to downtown.
“It just seemed like we didn’t have enough voices that will allow us to look at different ways to promote downtown,” Norris said. “There’s a lot of good things going on. You can drive around the Square and see a lot of positive things. Alcohol’s not the answer.”
Glasgow must secure a special EDC license from the Kentucky Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control before the designation takes effect. The ordinance is set to go into effect on July 1.
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