Customers visiting the new Van Aken district will soon be walking around with a drink in their hand if they'd like.
On Monday, Shaker Heights City Council voted unanimously to approve the measure . A public hearing was held early this month to discuss the opening of the outdoor refreshment area throughout the Van Aken District. The measure will allow patrons to purchase, carry and openly consume alcohol.
Supporters of the outdoor refreshment area say it would help make the district a primary destination.
The outdoor areas will be open from April to October each year. However, visitors will be restricted on where they can bring their drinks. Patrons will be given a labeled cup for their drink when they leave a restaurant.
“No matter what, you can't take your drink into stores. You must discard the cup before you enter any other store."
Shaker Heights City Council did not say when the measure would go into effect.