KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The Kalamazoo City Commission has approved expanding the Central Commons Refreshment Area in the downtown outdoor social district.
Commissioners unanimously approved the resolution Monday, according to a news release Friday.
The Central Commons Refreshment Area allows customers to purchase alcoholic beverages from adjacent, licensed establishments and shop, sit outside or walk around – as long as they remain within the commons area.
“On the heels of the state announcement that requires downtown restaurants to close indoor dining, the expansion of the commons area is even more important now in supporting downtown businesses while providing outdoor, socially-distant options for the community,” Kalamazoo Downtown Partnership President Andrew Haan said.
Twenty businesses were eligible in the original commons area approved in August, and the Nov. 16 action allows 13 more businesses to participate, pending approval from the Michigan Liquor Control Commission.
The expansion also allows customers to walk further with their drinks – allowing them to walk through more holiday lighting, storefront displays and decorations during the holiday season.
Approval is expected by early December.
