WASHINGTON - A long-lasting liquor license policy is causing controversy in part of D.C.'s Dupont Circle neighborhood on 17th Street between P and S Streets Northwest.

The area's advisory neighborhood commission has unanimously voted to put a stop on new liquor licenses, meaning no new bars or restaurants that serve alcohol are allowed to open.

Alisa Cohen enjoys having an option when it comes to eating and drinking on 17th Street in Dupont Circle. "I don't think it hurts anybody to have additional restaurants or additional bars. I'd love to see new things open," she said.

Local officials say they don't want the area to become overwhelmed with bars and late-night partying like D.C.'s Adams Morgan neighborhood. Some local residents agree.

"It's a little rambunctious, a little loud -- kind of wild -- people compare it to more of a Bourbon Street and we don't necessarily want that feel here in Dupont Circle," said Kelly Kirk, an area resident.

With a number of businesses already closed, resident Peter Rosenstein believes the extension of the bar freeze will scare away all types of businesses. "We have six empty storefronts on 17th Street. We're in close to a recession. The city needs tax money and we're still talking about bringing business here that isn't coming here," he said.

George Mallios is the owner of the restaurant Trio which already owns a license. He believes any type business should have the right to set up shop. "The ones that don't do well they should disappear and the ones that are successful are because they work hard and they give the neighborhood what they're looking for," he said.

 Email To Friend