Social district signs are up in Plaza Midwood — but you can't drink in the streets just yet

Why it matters: Establishing Charlotte's first social district has been a lengthy and tedious process that required city approval and neighborhood support.

• Local businesses hope the social district will boost foot traffic and profits.

How it works: A social district launching doesn't mean you can just carry a Bud Light bottle down the street.

• Customers must purchase to-go drinks from participating businesses, and the drinks will have to be in a specially marked cup.
• The district will stretch along Central Avenue, from Two Scoops Creamery to Morningside Pub.
• It will operate 10am to 10pm.

Between the lines: Plaza Midwood Merchants has been holding training sessions for businesses on the rules of the district over the last few weeks.

What's next: A growing number of neighborhoods have expressed interest in establishing social districts, including Montford, Elizabeth, NoDa and Lower South End. Some are waiting to see whether Plaza Midwood's district is successful — or a flop.

• Charlotte Center City Partners told Axios this week they're still studying the potential of a social district in Uptown and/or South End.