Benson Opens Downtown Social District

BENSON – The Town of Benson now has its own social district — joining more than 50 municipalities across North Carolina with similar designations.

The Board of Commissioners voted unanimously in November of last year to move forward with the proposal. Earlier this year, the NC Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission approved Benson’s request to implement the social district allowing downtown patrons to drink alcohol in a designated area.

Benson’s social district comprises the Printer Drive Alleyway Social Space and the surrounding block. The boundaries were designated by the two anchor businesses that sell alcohol on each end — Salvaged Heirlooms on West Main and Fainting Goat Brewing Company, Benson on West Parrish — flanked by South Railroad Street and South Ellis Drive to complete the one-block district.

The social district concept stems from House Bill 211, signed by Gov. Roy Cooper in July 2022, which allows local governments to create social districts in North Carolina. Benson’s interest in social districts was spurred by the completion of the aforementioned Printer Drive Alleyway Social Space in October 2023.

“We were already thinking about applying for a social district when we were finishing up the alleyway project,” explained Town Manager Kim Pickett. “We really wanted to make sure our businesses on that block would be able to utilize the alley space and people in downtown could enjoy a drink in nice weather.”

However, the social district is about more than just alcohol sales, added Mrs. Pickett. It’s also about increasing foot traffic, creating a nice atmosphere, and encouraging residents and visitors alike to spend more time in downtown Benson.

“We’re excited to have this social district designation,” she said. “Right now, it’s essentially for the alleyway, but we hope to expand the district in the future as Benson continues to grow.”

Currently, there are six businesses within the new social district with two — Fainting Goat and Salvaged Heirlooms — participating.

The boundaries of Benson’s new social district are defined by signage around the perimeter displaying when one is entering and leaving the designated area as well as a signage with a map showing the social district block.

When alcohol is purchased, the business will put the drink in a cup with a special Town of Benson Social District sticker and the patron is free to take the drink outside either in front of the business or into the alleyway social space.

Benson’s new Social District hours are:
Tuesday-Wednesday — 1pm-8pm
Thursday-Saturday — 1pm-10pm
Sunday — 1pm-6pm