New Orleans is known for its rich cultural history that’s still a pivotal part of The Big Easy’s identity. With various areas drawing attention from tourists and natives, Bourbon Street and its bars remain one of the most visited areas for an endless supply of good times.
But Mayor Mitch Landrieu wants to place a timeframe on how long these establishments can stay open for business day-to-day. According to the Associated Press, city officials are pondering a plan to have bars close their doors to patrons after 3 a.m. This will be in an effort to cut down on crime in N.O.
“We’re going to try to encourage them, through changing their environment, that it’s going to be a little bit more comfortable for them to go inside the bars, which they’ll be able to do until whatever hours they want,” Landrieu said. However, the supposed plan isn’t going over so well with business owners within the area. Earl Bernhardt, who owns several outlets, said he doesn’t see the logic behind the the proposal. “We do a lot of business after 3 o’clock,” he said. The reported legislation won’t necessarily prevent bars from serving customers after 3 a.m., but is an effort to keep patrons off the streets and within the bar.
AP adds that New Orleans’ crime rate increased to 175 murders in 2016.
