News

Laurel Park clears way for breweries

By Bill Moss, Published: September 17, 2015

LAUREL PARK — Laurel Park could be the next place where craft beer fans can quaff a local brew.

The Laurel Park Town Council on Tuesday approved a zoning code change that would allow microbreweries in its commercial district. The retail district is the area occupied by Laurel Park Village and the stores and services across U.S. 64.
The Town Council voted unanimously to approve microbreweries that could produce up to 15,000 barrels of beer a year. The microbrewery would be required to also have a tasting room, taproom or restaurant. The zoning change applies the same parking standards as those for restaurants — one space for every four seats and one space for every four employees.
“I would say it would be a good location for one,” said Joseph Laughter, owner of Joseph Laughter Clothier and a longtime tenant of Laurel Park Village. “I know there have been people looking at spaces and talking about things. It’s a great location.”
Town Manager Alison Melnikova said the town has received an inquiry about a microbrewery but no application for one yet. The commercial district already has three restaurants that serve alcohol, Mayor Carey O’Cain said.