Key Takeaways
- The Entertainment District in downtown Texarkana, Ark. has implemented new rules, including earlier closing times for businesses
- Businesses must now close at midnight, rather than 2 a.m.
- Outside alcohol is no longer allowed in the district, and drinks must be purchased from an Entertainment District business
- The Rock House Liquor Store is no longer considered part of the Entertainment District
- The changes aim to address safety concerns, including underage drinking and loitering, and promote a more enjoyable and safe experience for visitors
Introduction to the Changes
Changes are coming to the Entertainment District in downtown Texarkana, Ark. after a recent Board of Director’s meeting. The new rules, which were implemented on January 5, aim to address safety concerns and promote a more enjoyable experience for visitors. One of the main changes is the earlier closing time for businesses, which must now close at midnight instead of 2 a.m. This change is expected to reduce the number of large crowds and disturbances that have been a problem in the district.
Reasons Behind the Changes
The changes were requested by the Texarkana Arkansas Police Department (TAPD), which has been dealing with issues such as underage drinking and loitering in the district. According to Kristen Schultz with the TAPD, the district has seen a lot of outside underage drinking, as well as loitering and prowling in front of businesses, which has created large crowds and disturbances. The police department hopes that the new rules will help to address these safety concerns and create a more enjoyable experience for visitors. By reducing the hours of operation and restricting outside alcohol, the police department aims to reduce the number of incidents and promote a safer environment.
New Rules and Regulations
The new rules also prohibit outside alcohol from being brought into the district. Drinks must now be purchased from an Entertainment District business, and the Rock House Liquor Store is no longer considered part of the district. This change is expected to help reduce the amount of underage drinking and promote responsible drinking practices. The police department will be taking an educated role in enforcing the new rules, and will focus on informing citizens and helping them transition smoothly during the first 30 days. This approach will help to ensure that visitors are aware of the new rules and can plan accordingly.
Goals and Expectations
The ultimate goal of the changes is to make the downtown district a safe and enjoyable place for everyone. According to Schultz, the police department hopes that the new rules will encourage more people to visit the businesses in the Entertainment District. By promoting a safer and more responsible environment, the district can become a more attractive destination for visitors, which can help to boost local businesses and promote economic growth. The police department is committed to working with the community to ensure that the new rules are effective and that the district becomes a place where everyone can feel safe and enjoy themselves.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, the changes to the Entertainment District in downtown Texarkana, Ark. are aimed at addressing safety concerns and promoting a more enjoyable experience for visitors. The new rules, which include earlier closing times and restrictions on outside alcohol, are expected to help reduce incidents and promote a safer environment. The police department will be working to inform citizens and enforce the new rules, and is committed to making the district a safe and attractive destination for everyone. As the district moves forward, it will be important to monitor the effectiveness of the new rules and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the district continues to be a safe and enjoyable place for visitors.
