Macon-Bibb commissioners approve new park, banning alcohol at Rosa Parks Square

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Macon-Bibb Commissioners have finally come to a compromise on banning alcohol at Rosa Parks Square. The situation comes after some people were upset a beer festival was held at the square.

While some wanted alcohol to be banned there, others said the allowing alcohol is good for business. After months of discussion, Mayor Robert Reichert proposed, banning alcohol at the square, and creating “Poplar Street Commons”.

Commissioners approved this resolution Wednesday night at a commission meeting.

That would include turning the current park from First Street to Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard into more green space.

“As far as I’m concerned it’s a win-win for everybody, that Rosa Parks will retain it’s dignity and behavioral standards, the new park will cater to events having alcohol,” said commissioner Larry Schlesinger.

There are still no plans on when the renovations would take place, or how the county will fund the project. Banning alcohol won’t go into effect until Poplar Street Commons is complete. Mayor Reichert has decided not to sign any permits allowing alcohol at Rosa Parks Square.