Request for road closure sparks downtown event excitement

During a recent government meeting, the council reviewed a request from 3 Dots, a local organization, for a road closure and an exception to the open container ordinance for two upcoming events. The proposed closures would affect Pew Street between Beaver Avenue and the garage entrance on August 15 and September 18, 2024, from 3 PM to 9 PM.

The request aligns with the special events ordinance 2098, which allows the borough council to grant waivers for open container regulations under specific conditions. Notably, the event must be sponsored or co-sponsored by the Downtown State College Improvement District (DSCID), and it must take place within the downtown boundaries defined by the ordinance.

3 Dots has secured the necessary co-sponsorship from the DSCID, contingent upon fulfilling several requirements set by the borough. These include naming the DSCID as an additional insured party on their general and liquor liability insurance policy, with coverage of at least $1 million per occurrence. Additionally, 3 Dots must provide ramp certificates for employees serving alcohol at the event by July 1, 2024, and adhere to all other stipulations outlined in ordinance 2098.

Council staff has recommended approval of the open container waiver application, provided that these conditions are met. The decision reflects the council's ongoing support for community events that enhance local engagement while ensuring compliance with safety and liability regulations.