Atlantic Beach approves earlier curfew, discusses town’s future with state tourism department

Council members voted Monday night to end the official events of Atlantic Beach Bikefest earlier each night in an effort to help the Grand Strand get control of Memorial Day weekend this year, while also looking to the future of the festival.

Atlantic Beach Town Council members passed second reading of an ordinance Monday agreeing to set the curfew during Bikefest at 2 a.m. this year. The town curfew was 4 a.m. last year.

Town officials also met with representatives from the state’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Monday morning to discuss the future of Bikefest and of the town in general.

Police Chief Timothy Taylor said his desire to end festival activities earlier was done to coincide with the time that most bars and restaurants close in other parts of the Grand Strand.