'Opening Day is a no go' for open-container district

Story originally published March 13, 2015.

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Revelers will have to wait until after Opening Day for a proposed open-container district to take effect in Cincinnati.

The Ohio Legislature is considering a bill to allow cities to create open-container zones much like those in New Orleans or Memphis, Tennessee. Supporters had hoped to create such a district in The Banks in time for the Reds' Opening Day game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on April 6.

But a phrase tucked into the bill would require city councils to wait at least 30 days after each open-container zone is proposed before voting on whether to approve it.

"Opening Day is a no go," said Rep. Louis "Bill" Blessing, R-Colerain Township, one of the sponsors of the bill. "We're still on track for the (Major League Baseball) All-Star Game," in July.

Under the proposal, some cities and townships would be able to suspend open-container laws by creating up to three "outdoor refreshment areas" of no more than a half-mile square. Revelers would have to purchase alcohol from businesses in the designated area to drink it while walking around.

Supporters are still hoping to put the open-container zone in place as soon as possible, giving the city time to adjust to the new district and its security ahead of All-Star festivities.

The bill still must work its way through both the Ohio House and Senate. Supporters are hoping to receive approval from two-thirds of lawmakers, so that the legislation would take effect immediately. Only after that could Cincinnati start the process of creating an open-container district.

Even without the permanent open-container zone, this year's Opening Day festivities will still include the traditional one-day block party on Freedom Way and Joe Nuxhall Way, complete with alcohol.

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