The new state-run liquor store across the street from Dick’s (2nd Ave. NE and N. 45th Street) will open in two weeks as planned, just before Memorial Day weekend. We’ve heard from neighbors in that area that some are concerned they’ll see an increase in vagrants in search of cheap booze and an increase in crime.

Neighbors’ worries about vagrants focus on the alcohol impact area that encompasses the University District and ends at Latona Ave. N. in Wallingford. West of there, stores are allowed to sell high-alcohol, low-cost beverages.

Anne Radford at the Washington State Liquor Control Board told us that the new store will carry the typical state liquor store catalog, plus a large selection of wine. She said that the stores don’t typically sell the drinks that appear on the list of beer, malt and wine products that have been prohibited for sale in the alcohol impact area.

Seattle Police Department spokesperson Mark Jamieson said he wouldn’t expect an increase in crime or vagrancy in the area. “It’s been our experience that people go to the state-run liquor stores for specific purpose, they go and they leave,” he said. “The state-run liquor store isn’t the problem with underage sales or vagrants. That’s more of a problem at smaller stores.” Jamieson added, “I would think the community is better off with a business and occupied building rather than a vacant building or lot.”

The liquor store will open its doors on May 28. It will be open Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m, and Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

We’d like to hear from you. Are you concerned about the impact of the new liquor store on the neighborhood? Are you just pleased to have a closer option than Ballard or U Village? Comment below or send us a note at tips@mywallingford.com.