JOHNSON CITY, Tenn., (WJHL) – Since the ordinance that changed the last call time for alcohol from 3 to 1 a.m. was enacted last month, downtown bar owners have been in a state of uncertainty, trying to manage a reduction in sales and customer flow. Some establishments even worry about the possibility of shutting down.

However, downtown non-profit Founder’s Forge hopes to provide resources to help bars navigate this change.

“After the ordinance change, we immediately began brainstorming on how to support our downtown bars, not just to survive this adjustment but to hopefully thrive despite it,” said executive director David Nelson. “Everyone is now focused on what’s next. With the decision made, the priority is to figure out how to move forward and turn this challenge into a thriving opportunity.”

Founder’s Forge, a nonprofit entrepreneur center located in Johnson City, is dedicated to assisting small businesses and startups as they expand and aim for a larger impact.

The newest project from Founder’s Forge is Bar Support, a program designed to offer resources to businesses affected by the last call ordinance. According to Nelson, the initiative will involve collaborative community efforts to adapt to the new circumstances.

“It’s about coordinating with them to brainstorm solutions, share our findings, and develop new and innovative ideas, such as after-hours food events and other activities that can help them continue to prosper,” he explained. “Even with a 1 a.m. last call, the excitement and entertainment need not end at these places.”

Nelson said these ideas and meetings will be based on research gathered from other communities with similar alcohol laws.

He hopes that Bar Support will have a meaningful impact on the downtown bar community and the residents of Johnson City.

“We are determined to preserve our growing and vibrant downtown,” Nelson stated. “Working together to flourish and overcome challenges, even with new regulations, is what entrepreneurship is all about. Change is constant, whether anticipated or not, and finding paths to success is essential.”