In an effort to help businesses bounce back from the pandemic, Santa Monica's City Council approved a motion Tuesday to convert its Third Street Promenade into an entertainment zone by allowing public drinking with beverages from participating businesses.

The city of Santa Monica plans to designate the Third street Promenade as an open container area. The goal is to attract more visitors, but some business owners are concerned it’ll do the opposite. The city hopes this new initiative will revitalize the Third Street Promenade and make it a destination for tourists and people who live in the area.

Adults 21 and over will be able to buy alcohol from licensed participating businesses and consume drinks in designated areas beginning next month.