Bill for NYC outdoor drinking zones proposed ahead of FIFA World Cup
State Assembly Member Tony Simone proposed a bill that if passed would allow hot spots with lots of restaurants and bars to opt in to expanding outdoor services for food and drinks during the duration of the World Cup.
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It's the final countdown until the FIFA World Cup comes to the United States, and as teams suit up a New York lawmaker wants to make sure businesses can score off the pitch.
State Assembly Member Tony Simone proposed a bill that if passed would allow hot spots with lots of restaurants and bars to opt in to expanding outdoor services for food and drinks during the duration of the World Cup.
Steven Gallardo, manager at Mezcal's, says it would be a big win for businesses.
“I know financially. I think a lot of people could use it and use that boost and hopefully with it, you know, we will make some money this summer," said Gallardo.
Tourist Josie says the concept is part of match day culture all across the world.
“In the U.K. that's what people do. You might have to have a plastic cup if you live near the ground, but there's a lot of outdoor drinking for the football," said Josie.
Simone says the idea is modeled after a similar item signed into law in Washington State. He also says similar zones will exist for the World Cup at the Rockefeller Center and Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. But he says the bill would allow for more people and businesses to get involved.
“Tickets are very expensive. It's very hard to get into the stadium. So many people will be watching them in every fight, all five boroughs and throughout New York state. Why not give the opportunity for more fans to enjoy the game? A unifying event," said Simone.
Simone says the zones wouldn't be a free for all and that businesses would still have to apply, present safety plans, as well as work with local agencies, other businesses, and community boards.
“It’ll simply give the opportunity of localities expanding outdoor eating, drinking within the zone. You can't walk around with open container. They'll get a ticket for that. Still against the law, it doesn’t mean that it’ll be everywhere in the city. It'll be designated places that provide accurate plan," said Simone.
With the tournament just months away, Simone says the bill is running on a time crunch. It would still have to go through multiple steps like getting state legislature and Gov. Kathy Hochul's approval to name a few.
