Drinking in Calgary parks could soon be a reality
Posted Apr 12, 2021 08:39:13 PM.
Last Updated Apr 13, 2021 08:36:42 AM.
CALGARY (CityNews) — A new proposal could see Calgarians able to enjoy an alcoholic drink or two in public parks this summer.
The pilot program, if approved, could begin as early as June and would pivot Calgary’s bookable fire pit program into a bookable picnic table program for those who want to drink outdoors.
“Anecdotally on the street, I’m only hearing very positive things from people,” said Ward 9 councilor Gian-Carlo Carra.
It’s a possibility even the city’s mayor is open to.
“In a year where we’re encouraging outdoor gatherings, I’m very happy to use this year as an experiment, as we have used the last two years as experiments on many things, and just see how it goes,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi.
Now, while Carra says anecdotally he’s seen support, there are still questions that need to be answered before public drinking becomes the new reality.
The hard-hit restaurant industry doesn’t have an issue with the concept, but some questions have been raised on how it would be enforced to make sure large gatherings aren’t happening and furthering spread of COVID-19.
“It’s very hard for our industry to keep being the targeted industry and then watch other things pop up that are contributing to the cases,” said Ernie Tsu, president of the Alberta Hospitality Association, and owner of Trolley 5 Brewpub.
But, Carra says provincial health protocols will always be considered.
“Obviously everything is subject to COVID restrictions.”
The proposal goes before council May 10 and if approved, the program could start as early as June.