Smyrna Market Village allows open containers of alcohol

Cheers, Smyrna. Folks there may now get a to-go cup and walk around Smyrna Market Village with an adult beverage after the city council approved an ordinance allowing it Monday night, Smyrna spokeswoman Jennifer Bennett said.

The ordinance makes the Market Village a “restaurant district,” which accommodates open containers.

This resolution defines the “restaurant district” as including the West Spring Street area that extends from Atlanta Road to Bank Street.

Basically, you’re OK if you’re near the brick pavers, the ordinance said. That includes the sidewalks, green space and the fountain area.

Bennett said this move was modeled after similar rules in Acworth, Roswell, Woodstock and Savannah.

“The City of Smyrna wishes to encourage patronage of local businesses and restaurant districts in the downtown area and other commercial centers around the community so as to support the economic health of the community,” according to the meeting agenda.

So here’s the deal, per the ordinance:

■ It’s one drink per person

■ The drink must have been purchased within the Market Village

■ The beverage must be in a paper or plastic cup; no glass, cans or bottles

■ It can’t be larger than 16 ounces

■ Drinking is allowed only from 11 a.m. to midnight

■ Don’t be a doofus (OK, we added that one.)

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