The St. Patrick’s Day parade and block party that usually draws thousands of visitors to Lower Greenville has been canceled, but authorities will maintain a presence in the neighborhood this weekend to ensure that business celebrations comply with local laws and regulations.
Gov. Greg Abbott lifted mask requirements and occupancy limits just in time for folks to get rowdy this holiday, and some bars are planning events with outdoor DJs that may cause crowds to overflow into the street, said Darren Dattalo of the Lower Greenville Neighborhood Association Crime Watch. That could shut down Greenville Avenue or create a hazardous driving situation, he said.
Dallas Fire-Rescue, the Dallas Police Department, Code Enforcement, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission and Parking Enforcement will maintain a physical presence on Lower Greenville, District 14 Councilman David Blewett said in a statement with Dallas police. Off-duty, reserve and mounted officers, as well as other response team divisions, will be on standby for any necessary assistance.
“If a significant number of people come down here, it’s not just occupancy limits of the restaurants and bars, it’s traffic, and it’s a safety consideration,” Blewett told Channel 4. “A lot of these streets are narrow. If you parked on both sides, fire vehicles, police vehicles couldn’t get in if they needed to. I want safe, incremental opening of our economy, opening up of our service industry. I want this weekend to be successful, but I want it to be protected and safe for the neighborhoods.”
Although businesses will remain open, residents are strongly encouraged to adhere to the latest Centers for Disease Control guidelines: wear a mask, avoid crowds and maintain 6 feet of distance from others.
Problems with noise, disorderly conduct, public urination and the like should be reported to 911 only.
