Jetton Village Uncorks Proposal
Restaurant owners propose a social district for Jetton Village
By Dave Vieser – Is a new social district coming to Cornelius?
It could soon happen if a trio of restaurant owners gets Town Board approval.
“We’ve watched how well the Lake Norman social district in downtown Cornelius has worked, and our feeling is, why not have it here on the west side of town, too?” said Jim Gordon, owner of Peninsula Prime.
In an interview with Cornelius Today, Gordon was joined by Josh McCracken of H2 Public House and Jimmy Holywell of Penny Lane pub to outline their support for the plan.
“Our business is doing very well, but we believe this idea would keep even more customers on the west side of town near Jetton Village,” Gordon said. “That means they wouldn’t have to struggle with cross-town traffic.”
For example, Gordon said, a diner could have a meal at Peninsula Prime, then stroll to H2 or Penny Lane with an after-dinner beverage in hand.
What is a social district?
Social districts began to emerge after a state law adopted in 2021 permitted cities and towns to designate areas where businesses can sell alcoholic beverages in to-go containers. The idea allows patrons to walk within designated areas while carrying those beverages. It was envisioned as a way to help generate business in areas recovering from COVID-19.
Under town rules adopted in 2023, patrons in Cornelius social districts may consume alcoholic beverages in specially designated cups between noon and 10 p.m.
Gordon said a small park with a gazebo near the three establishments could be included in the proposed district. The park is maintained by a local community association, not the town.
Cornelius established its first social district in 2023 in the downtown area, becoming one of the first towns to participate in the program.
Deputy Town Manager Wayne Herron outlined the requirements for businesses to participate:
“Each participant must have a sticker or some type of emblem to show how they are participating. There are three options: serving alcohol, not serving alcohol but allowing people to walk through, or not participating at all.”
Businesses must also follow insurance and licensing requirements and use special, state-mandated cups with specific markings.
Herron said he will work with Gordon to navigate the requirements and prepare the proposal for Town Board consideration.
