Downtown Greeley approved for “Go-Cup” district

GREELEY – For the first time this Friday, right after “On the rocks or blended?” Greeley Rio bartenders will have to ask, “For here or to-go?”

The first-ever common consumption area in the state of Colorado was approved Monday by the Greeley Liquor Authority for what is already being called the “Go-Cup” district, an area confined to the Ninth Street Plaza.

Restaurant and bar patrons within the designated area will have the option to purchase an alcoholic drink from one of eight establishments in a plastic to-go cup, to take outside and consume while watching plaza entertainment or shopping. The allowance will be limited to Friday nights from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. (with last call at 10 p.m.) June 8 through Oct. 26, weather permitting.

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“We have been hosting Friday Fests for many years,” Pam Bricker, executive director of the Downtown Development Authority, said in a news release. “With this new ordinance, we look forward to providing entertainment for all ages every Friday night during the warm-weather months.”

The approval does not come without cautionary measures.

Anyone buying an alcoholic beverage must present a valid ID and receive a designated wristband.

Any alcohol consumed outside of the restaurant/bar must be in a plastic cup with the name of the establishment on it.

The plaza will be monitored by security to enforce the policies, and no cups will be allowed outside of the district. There will be a taxi stand set up during operating hours and special offers for designated drivers.

Participating businesses include The Penalty Box, The Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant, the Armadillo, the Jager, the Mad Cow Saloon, the Kress Cinema and Lounge, Patrick’s Irish Pub, Tavola Restaurant and Sky Nightclub.

The City Council unanimously endorsed the ordinance in March and the Downtown Greeley Promotional Association put the plan together.