The Morenci Social District is growing, offering expanded hours, a larger footprint, and even more opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy downtown in a fun, flexible, and community-centered way.
Established in 2022 through a partnership between the City of Morenci and the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), the Social District was designed to create new opportunities for local businesses, enhance downtown events and activities for adults, and attract both residents and visitors to downtown Morenci. The district received official approval from the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) in early 2023, with Flats Pub (now North Street Pub) and the Morenci Eagles serving as the first licensed participants.
Initially, the Social District was active only during City Council–approved events. However, this limited schedule proved impractical for everyday use and smaller gatherings. To address this, the DDA set a goal in 2024 to expand both the operational hours and geographic boundaries of the district to improve its accessibility and long-term viability.
Following input from city staff and participating license holders, the DDA recommended extending the hours to daily operation from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. The City Council approved this recommendation in July 2024. These consistent hours now align better with local business operations and make it easier for establishments to participate regularly.
The district boundaries have also been expanded. The updated Social District now stretches from W. Locust Street to Baker Street and from Summit Street to the Bean Creek bridge. The 300 block of W. Main Street and all residential properties are excluded from the district. This revised map was developed by the DDA and reviewed by public safety and city staff before receiving City Council approval in March 2025. The expansion was approved by the MLCC in April 2025. Updated signs are posted at participating establishments and along the district perimeter to clearly mark the updated boundaries and provide guidance to the public.
“Expanding the Social District brings new energy to downtown, allowing all businesses to benefit and enabling the DDA to expand its events,” said Chelsea Craig, DDA Chair. “It’s about creating a more vibrant, welcoming space where people want to gather, explore, and support local.”
Key Guidelines for Morenci’s Social District:
Alcoholic beverages must be purchased from a participating Social District license holder.
Each drink must be served in a plastic cup bearing both the business logo and the official Social District logo. This helps ensure drinks remain traceable and in compliance with MLCC regulations.
Beverages may be enjoyed outdoors within the Social District but may not be taken into another establishment.
Bringing your own alcohol into the district is strictly prohibited.
Leaving the Social District with an alcoholic beverage is also not allowed.
As the Morenci Social District enters its next phase, the City and DDA are excited to see how these updates will continue to support downtown revitalization and offer new ways for the community to connect, celebrate, and enjoy local businesses.
For more information and a map of the Social District, visit the Morenci DDA Social District webpage.