The Peoria City Council discussed the pros and cons of expanding on-site drinking areas in the downtown. That could include an open-carry zone:
At issue is whether to close select streets to allow alcohol consumption and carrying in parts of the Riverfront Entertainment District that stretches roughly along Water Street from Hamilton to State Street. Usually alcohol can only be provided if the drinking area is contained near a fixed establishment. City Councilman Ryan Spain says an open-carry zone could draw more business investment, but it needs to be balanced:
“I think that could be powerful, but you might diffuse it to such an extent that you don’t really gain the type of business density that we’re looking for.”
Some council members suggested closing other streets outside of the downtown for open-carry, while others expressed concern about noise levels and parking access. Staff is planning public input meetings on the issue.