Fredericksburg, Texas, has transformed into a prominent wine tourism destination with over 80 wineries, second only to Napa Valley in the U.S. However, the influx of visitors, exceeding three million annually, has led to significant alcohol-related issues, with public intoxication and DWI constituting 60% of local arrests. As a result, community stakeholders, including law enforcement and city council members, are addressing these problems through public discussions that suggest possible measures like restricting open containers and enhancing police presence to promote safer drinking practices.
Around 60 percent of Fredericksburg's arrests each year are due to public intoxication and DWI, according to the Fredericksburg Police Department, which has tracked a steady rise since 2019.
Police now rank those offenses as their top priority, and even the Fredericksburg City Council is looking to address some of the issues tied to the city's alcohol-fueled tourism boom.
Residents made suggestions, including restricting open containers on Main Street, shortening bar hours, and increasing police presence to combat problematic alcohol consumption.
During an hour-long public discussion, residents voiced concerns about being overserved, drugged, and assaulted at bars, highlighting the need for stricter TABC laws.
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