New social district coming to The Streets at Southpoint

The Streets at Southpoint Mall in Durham is preparing to launch its social district.

Signs designating the Open Container Area have been installed and are currently covered, anticipating a confirmed launch date.

This would allow alcoholic beverages within the specified area throughout the open-air section of the mall. Open-carry drinks will not be allowed inside the shopping center.

To-go drinks would be limited to those sold by ABC-permitted establishments and be consumed within the district before leaving.

Shoppers told WRAL News they think this will help increase the mall’s foot traffic.

“It feels like it needs some life breathed back into it and I think that would help,” said Rhonda Jones.

She was out grabbing some last-minute items with her daughter, who’s heading off to college.

“I think it’s pretty exciting. It may draw an adult crowd during the evenings,” she added.

Bringing life back to malls and downtowns across the state has been the goal of these so-called social districts.

According to Downtown Durham Inc., which runs the Bullpen, 60% of businesses surveyed in early 2024 reported increases in sales since the social district started there.

“The pandemic opened that up for street vendors and even restaurants kind of being outside. I think that helped in a way,” said Vaughn Nelson who’s visiting the mall from Pittsboro.

A spokesperson told WRAL News the mall is still sorting out several details and requirements to get it up and running.

Southpoint hopes to launch its new social district in early August.

“I think it’s okay as long as people aren’t getting too carried away with their alcohol. I feel like there should be a limit on how much you can have at the mall at least,” said shopper Mela Failor.

Most we spoke with are eager to see the hustle, bustle and excitement return to the streets.

“I think just drawing more of a crowd, especially on weekends, potentially. I don’t think this is a place that people potentially think about coming for a social atmosphere. So I do think it would help with businesses,” added Jones.

The district would operate during mall hours and 30 minutes after closing. A list of participating businesses at the mall is still being sorted out.