Small NC towns create social districts to increase nightlife, tourism

Raleigh already has one in the works – and in the past few weeks, other communities in our area have followed suit: including Selma, Wilson and Oxford.

Oxford leaders expect their own social district to be open by the end of June.

The idea could increase foot-traffic for downtown businesses, while providing a more robust nightlife for the roughly 9,000 citizens in Oxford. Even better, these small towns hope walkable social districts could increase tourism, making them a destination due to their proximity to the Triangle.

For a taste of Oxford, look to the street signs. They're garnished with red peppers, an homage to the annual North Carolina Hot Sauce Contest they host every September.

But Oxford has other tastes: Like craft beer and fine wine. At The Hub on Main Street, owner Pierre Gingue says downtown is ripe for a social district.

"I think most of the support is around the idea that Oxford can become a destination," says Gingue.

This month, all seven city commissioners voted to create a roughly two-block district where folks can stroll the streets with adult beverages in hand.

"I think it tells people that are looking at Oxford that we have some things going on," says Mayor Jackie Sergent.

Visitors could leave a restaurant and browse some shops with drink-in-hand -- as long as the shops are participating. Participating shops will have a green sticker on their door.

To help with competition, guests won't be allowed to bring your drink into another business that sells alcohol.

One resident, Joan Roberson -- who declined to speak on camera -- told WRAL News she fears the district creates too many risks. She's nervous it could lead to drunk driving.

"You're inviting people to drink openly in front of our children," she says. "I don't understand the necessity of walking with alcohol."

However, Sergent says the district will not only be safe, it will make for easier socializing and shopping.

Gingue agrees, saying, "It's not a Block Party. It's not a permit for open drunkenness or disorderly conduct. This is a controlled area."

Segrent says the social district would communicate to people that the City of Oxford is a forward-looking community – a community she hopes more people will visit and get a taste of its unique culture.