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Committee backs two new 'entertainment zones' on Market Street and near Chase Center
Summary
The committee recommended two entertainment zones — a Mid‑Market area between Fifth and Sixth streets and an Arena/Thrive City zone around Chase Center — to permit open, to‑go alcoholic beverage consumption during permitted events under SB 76; business and venue representatives spoke in favor and the ordinance was sent to the full Board.
The Land Use and Transportation Committee voted to forward an ordinance to the full Board that would designate two entertainment zones under state law: a Mid‑Market zone on Market Street between Fifth and Sixth Streets and an Arena Entertainment Zone encompassing Chase Center and Thrive City.
Ben Van Houten of the Office of Economic and Workforce Development told the committee that the state law enabling the tool, SB 76, allows the Board of Supervisors to designate areas where restaurants, bars, breweries and wineries may serve alcohol in non‑glass, to‑go containers during special events permitted by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Van Houten said the zones are intended to help generate economic activity and support nearby businesses by aligning event permits, street closures and public‑works approvals through a management plan.
Representatives from Thrive City and venue operators urged approval. "We are very excited for the opportunity to enhance this experience by bringing an entertainment zone to Thrive City," said Yoyo Murphy of Chase Center and Thrive City, who highlighted free public programming at the plaza. Erin Bilbo of Goldenvoice Bay Area, representing the Warfield Theater, said the Mid‑Market zone would help revitalize Market Street and bring patrons to local businesses. A new small‑business owner at Sixth and Market said a steady event schedule could be critical for an early‑stage hospitality business.
Chair Mirna Melgar moved that the ordinance be recommended as a committee report to the Board; the clerk recorded unanimous committee assent (3 ayes). The ordinance will trigger a follow‑up process for OEWD to develop site‑specific management plans and operating requirements, which could include coordination with DBI, Public Works and ABC event permits.
