Macon-Bibb County’s Facilities & Engineering Committee will hold a Public Forum on Wednesday, May 31 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. in Commission Chambers at Government Center (700 Poplar Street). People will be given the opportunity to let the Committee know whether or not they feel events held in Rosa Parks Square should have the option to serve alcohol or not.
There is currently an ordinance being discussed by the Commission that would eliminate the ability for events in Rosa Parks Square to serve alcohol. It is currently tabled so the Commission could hold this forum and get more feedback.
“This is a chance for people for support and oppose this ordinance to let us know how they would like the park used in the future,” says Commissioner Scotty Shepherd.“Since we’ve more than doubled the size of Rosa Parks Square and added landscaping and benches, it has become a much more attractive place for both events and quiet reflection,” says Facilities and Engineering Chair Al Tillman. “As its use increases, we should better understand what attracts people there and how we can make it available for all people.
Currently, alcohol is banned in all public parks; if an event (private events, festivals, etc.) wishes to have alcohol, it must be approved by the department and the Mayor. The department reviews the event’s setup and procedures to help provide for the protection of the park and safety of participants, including a trash plan, security from the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, ability to check identification, and more.
Rosa Parks Square recently underwent a design process led by the Urban Development Authority and design firm HGOR. The process was part of the Macon Action Plan, and three public forums and meetings with the Commissioners were held to hear from the community. People were asked how they would like the Park designed in order to maximize its gathering space and to instill a sense of reflection and honor for those memorialized there.
About the Macon Action Plan
The Macon Action Plan (MAP) is a comprehensive, community-driven plan that envisions the future of Macon’s historic downtown and intown neighborhoods. All members of the Macon community – those who live, work, worship, learn, and play in Macon’s Urban Core – were welcomed participants, invited to help craft a collective vision for the future and identify key actions for change to make our shared vision become reality.
Facilitated by the Macon-Bibb Urban Development Authority, Macon-Bibb County, and their partners, MAP is a roadmap to guide change and decision making in coming years.