GREENVILLE, S.C. (FOX Carolina) – Greenville City Council unanimously approved a new downtown entertainment district Monday night, limiting operating hours for future businesses in an effort to improve public safety following late-night incidents that gained social media attention.
The district encompasses the area around McBee Avenue, College Street, Beattie Place, Spring Street and Richardson Street. New businesses within the district will not be allowed to serve food or drinks after midnight.
“We are very sensitive to anything negative that happens in the city,” said Ken Gibson, Greenville City Council member.
The measure comes months after late-night downtown fights spread on social media.
“Once those videos got the notoriety that they got, it really spurred us to look and see whether or not we had a problem and what we could do to try to alleviate some of those concerns,” Gibson said.
Residents remain divided on the impact. Some argue safety depends on behavior rather than business hours.
“We definitely need more businesses to open past 2 o’clock for people to have time to sober up,” said Josue, a Greenville resident.
Carlos Zaldivar, a former bar owner, said the restrictions could hurt property values and make it harder for new owners to succeed.
“I always thrive between 11 and 1 o’clock. It brings in other business,” Zaldivar said.
City leaders said the ordinance could strengthen the district.
“Because there’s going to be a greater amount of control, there’s going to be a greater and a better experience for people who come downtown,” Gibson said.
The ordinance does not affect current businesses with special-exception permits. Officials said those permits will transfer if an owner sells. The city must measure the district’s effectiveness in six and 12 months, though specific metrics are not outlined.
Mayor Knox White honored
Council surprised and honored Mayor Knox White at Monday’s meeting, celebrating his 30 years serving as Greenville’s mayor. White took office in 1995.
Staff presented a special video highlighting his accomplishments, including Falls Park, the Liberty Bridge, Flour Field, the Swamp Rabbit Trail and Unity Park.
“Of course we do quality, of course we do first class and we do it right. And that’s built into what’s happening with the leadership with the staff everyday and of course city council. Thank you all,” White said.
Haynie-Sirrine rezoning
Council also approved rezoning nearly 100 acres in the Haynie-Sirrine neighborhood in a final vote. The update brings the area in line with the city’s new zoning code, creating clearer and more consistent rules for property owners.
The land sits near the future County Square project. City and neighborhood leaders have said the change could help spur development.
Urban forest plan
City staff shared their updated Urban Forest Comprehensive Plan during a council work session Monday. The plan calls for planting 1,600 new trees by April 2026.
The city has hired a New York-based company to help guide its long-term goals for boosting the city’s tree canopy.
Community centers manager honored
Laquan Priest, the city’s community centers manager, was recently inducted into Claflin University’s Hall of Fame. The honor recognizes alumni for both athletic and academic excellence.
Priest competed in track and field, earning multiple major awards including being a two-time NCAA All-American in both indoor and outdoor events. He maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout college.
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