A proposal to transform the vacant B&H Pharmacy building at 286 W. Center Street into an upscale sports bar is facing opposition from Brigham Young University and local residents, according to a November 1 report. The company behind Lehi-based Scorez has made an offer for the property with plans to create an alcohol-centered entertainment venue for a professional 21 plus clientele.
During a Provo City Council work meeting on October 3, Quinn Peterson, the executive director of Downtown Provo Inc, argued the development could drive economic growth and attract visitors, including sports entities such as Big 12 partner organizations. While Provo has at least 25 restaurants licensed to sell alcohol, current rules require them to generate 70% of revenue from food. The proposed tavern license would allow an establishment to derive up to 100% of its revenue from alcohol.
Erik Davis, representing the Brigham Young University president’s council, voiced opposition during the meeting. Davis stated that the university wants visitors to experience a community that is different from a typical college town and expressed concerns regarding the social harm that could arise from increased alcohol availability. He argued that Provo's distinctive community character is an asset that should be protected.
Local residents and medical professionals have also expressed concerns regarding the proposal. Dr. Richard Holmes, a family physician with 37 years of experience in Utah County, told The Cougar Chronicle that increased alcohol consumption is correlated with various health and safety concerns. Holmes, who has consulted on rape and sexual assault cases, noted that most cases he encountered involved students who had been drinking. Resident Bonnie Morrow also questioned the impact on the community, asking if Provo's future should prioritize alcohol or education.
Provo City Councilwoman Katrice Mackay expressed support for a vibrant downtown but questioned if adding more 21 and over bars is the best approach for a city where the average age is approximately 23 and over 40% of the population are students. Mackay noted that research shows associations between alcohol outlet density and crime, DUIs, and traffic-related harm. She suggested that the city could instead focus on restaurants that offer dancing, billiards, karaoke, trivia, and live music to create spaces for all ages.
Downtown Provo previously had several bars until the city council enacted a moratorium on new tavern licenses after deeming the amount excessive. Since then, establishments have gradually closed, leaving ABG’s on Center Street as the only standalone bar remaining. While the council voted 4-3 in 2020 to allow brewpubs in parts of downtown and near shopping centers, no operator has opened one due to restrictions on visibility, square footage, and production.
The Provo City Council is scheduled to hear an additional presentation from an unnamed prospective alcohol retailer at its work meeting on November 3. The timeline for a final decision remains unclear, but the contract for the Scorez owners to purchase the B&H Pharmacy building expires on December 1. Citizens may email council@provo.gov to share thoughts on the proposal.
