After a yearlong debate over the status of Boon Street Market’s liquor license, the Narragansett Town Council has decided–after a five-hour discussion–to let them keep their liquor license, but with tighter restrictions.
It was decided in a 4-1 vote that in order for Boon Street to keep their license, they must abide by these rules: outdoor music is to end at 9 p.m., outdoor activities are to be over at 10 p.m., the patio and windows must be closed by 11:30 p.m. and indoor service may remain open until 1 a.m., according to The Independent RI.
Council President Alex Menzies was the only one to vote against the rest of the board. Rather than differing closing times, he would have preferred the bar to close entirely at 11 p.m. By doing this, it would address what Menzies said is the root of the problem–when patrons leave late at night, it disturbs households.
His stance was formed from his own personal experiences with Boon Street after visiting the bar on a busy night along with Councilwoman Donna Vignali, according to Menzies. He admitted that the previous council was unprepared for a decision of this magnitude.
After Monday’s vote, Boon Street Market keeps their license.
Many students’ main concern is what these new rules mean for one of their favorite late-night spots.
“I was happy they renewed their liquor license, but I think the new restrictions are a bit unreasonable,” fourth-year student Emily Raleigh said. “I think once the music ends, everyone will leave. What’s the point of even being there if there’s nothing to do after 10 p.m.?”
Raleigh said she goes to Boon Street most Saturday nights. Not only does she think the bar isn’t too wild, she said, “It could be rowdier!”
Raleigh said she thinks these restrictions will definitely affect Boon Street’s popularity among students, but understands where the community members are coming from.
“Maybe if it was more tame Sunday through Wednesday and more lively Thursday through Saturday,” Raleigh said.
Boon Street General Manager Brandon Johnson is prioritizing finding common ground between the popularity of Boon Street and the concerns of community members.
“Ultimately, we need to solve the noise problem that’s affecting our neighbors,” Johnson said.
They are working to build a pergola structure, or an outside roofed structure with beams, along with sound-absorbing panels and a 14-foot sound curtain to help reduce the noise, according to Johnson.
The restrictions aren’t ideal, but Johnson sees them as temporary.
“Obviously, we didn’t want restrictions placed on us, but until the pergola is constructed and the noise issue is resolved, I understand why the council took action,” Johnson said.
Despite the new rules, Johnson remains optimistic about the months ahead. He hopes to have the pergola installed by the spring so that everyone in the area can coexist.
“There’s been a lot of negative chatter online, and while we appreciate people standing up for us, this isn’t a battle between Boon Street Market and our neighbors,” Johnson said. “We’re investing heavily in a permanent solution… and making real progress.”
