In a likely buzzworthy move, San Francisco Mayor London Breed has proposed to create a downtown "entertainment zone" where patrons can freely sip their drinks in the streets during designated events. This proposal aims to give the city's nightlife a shot in the arm by allowing bars and restaurants within specific zones to sell alcoholic beverages to patrons enjoying the open air.

The inaugural zone, possibly coming to a section of Front Street, hopes to encourage patrons to step outside, support local joints, and slowly heal a downtown still nursing post-pandemic issues. According to an SFist report, the legislation rides on the back of State Sen. Scott Wiener's "Refreshment Area" legislation. If the SF Board of Supervisors gives it a thumbs up on Tuesday, May 7, the law could quickly become a reality.

Not just a free-for-all, the proposal is structured to boost business in a targeted area along Front Street, between California Street and Sacramento Street. Some local watering holes are already lining up to participate, with the likes of Schroeder's, Harrington's, and Royal Exchange hopefully of the opportunity. As KRON reports, the plan is more than just drinks on the sidewalk—it's a full-fledged initiative with live entertainment and other activations.

To sweeten the pot, Mayor Breed's office aims to rally the local economy by injecting up to $50,000 into events through the Downtown Entertainment & Nightlife Revitalization Grant Program (ENRG). As reported by SFist, this grant could cover the whole nine yards—from planning expenses to on-site staff.

In an official statement, Mayor Breed said, “Our message is clear: San Francisco is having fun, thriving and open for business.”