City of Beaufort extends ‘Social District’ pilot program through Labor Day weekend

BEAUFORT, S.C. (WTOC) - The City of Beaufort said it is extending its Social District pilot program through the upcoming Labor Day weekend following positive community feedback.

According to city officials, the decision was made after conferring with Downtown Operations staff.

The pilot program, which first launched in late April of this year, allows patrons to carry open alcoholic beverages in designated outdoor areas downtown under specific rules.

Previous Coverage: Downtown Beaufort launches “Social District” pilot, allowing shoppers to sip beer or wine in designated areas

City officials said most of the feedback received so far has been positive, and the city has not seen an escalation of local ordinance violations since the program began.

Downtown Operations staff plan to continue gathering additional feedback from local stakeholders as city leaders approach a final decision point on whether to make the Social District a permanent fixture in downtown Beaufort.