The City Council of Iowa City has voted to bar the opening of new bars and liquor stores in the city's downtown area.
The City Council voted 5-2 late Tuesday for an ordinance that requires a distance of 500 feet between drinking establishments anywhere in the city.
The law requires 1,000 feet between downtown liquor stores that make 25 percent or more of their gross yearly income from alcohol sales.
The 500-foot and 1,000-foot limits cover the entire downtown area. That rule essentially prevents new bars and liquor stores from opening downtown.
Authorities say existing establishments will not be affected by the new law.
