Street Interviews: What are your thoughts on a 4 am liquor license for areas in downtown LA?
In LA at 2 am, every bar must legally stop selling alcohol. Matt Haney State Representative from San Francisco, has proposed a bill in the California legislature (AB 342) for local governments to establish “hospitality zones” where a 4 am liquor license would be allowed on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and certain state holidays. Haney said the bill aims to revitalize downtown areas.
I took to the street to see what residents, tourists, and others had to say about a 4 am liquor license for South Park and areas in downtown. I discovered during a series of interviews that many were excited at the opportunity to bring more economic energy to downtown and others not so much.
Two residents at the South Park Farmers Market said they would use the extended time if it were available. With proper precautions, such as ensuring food is available with the drinks, they felt positive about the change happening in their neighborhood.
Two guys said they don't stay out too late in the South Park area. There is nothing going on that late, and they don't think there needs to be. But if they wanted to stay out until 4 am, they would go to other areas of downtown. They said they know how to be safe during that time of night.
A pair hanging out on a bench on Broadway felt like nightlife is a great time to be social. "I think more night life options would be great to see" one said, believing it would be inevitable as more people come to downtown.
Two women were against it for the South Park area but for it in other areas. South Park is meant to be more of a residential neighborhood and not a night life neighborhood, they said. I had a couple of quick answers from an older couple, as well as a mom, who gave similar responses.
Another local couple walking near the United Theater noted a number of big cities that have successfully extended their liquor hours. "New York is bumping all night," one said. "There are all kinds of open places for people to go to."
Nolan Marshall, Executive Director of SPBID Social District, says “when we changed our brand to the Social District, it was aspirational about creating an environment that is welcoming and safe for people to connect at any time of the day. This bill gives us the flexibility to offer a lifeline to the restaurants, breweries, and neighborhood bars that are vital to our identity and economic vibrancy.”
One night I walked through Prank Bar, which was still strong at 11:30, and was able to talk to one person who said what I expected: they were skeptical about extending the hours in South Park but recommended places that stay open late near 7th Street.
Two guys were enthusiastic about the 4 am liquor license and, while being aware of issues, felt they could be mitigated with proper bar care and security. They liked that it brought economic opportunities to the area and said they would definitely be using the extra time if it were available.
In summary, it depends on the geographic area. Many don't feel like South Park needs to have that change but like the idea of how it could help downtown. Safety was mentioned often, as well as having late night food options with the alcohol if bars stay open to 4 am.
By Justin Orkin