JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Super Bowl XXXIX will bring big crowds and big parties to Jacksonville in 2005. Game time next year could turn one stretch of downtown into something like an open bar, with impromptu bars lining the riverfront.

To ensure all of the celebrating happens safely, a plan will soon be submitted to the City Council, offering perks to businesses that train their employees in alcohol safety.

Under the plan, bars and vendors would undergo training on issues like handling drunk patrons and catching underage drinkers.

"What we are looking at is to try to give them some incentive to provide their employers and staff that training, which could be a waiver of certain hour requirements or distance requirements," said City Council member Kevin Hyde.

This means bars that participate might be allowed to stay open past 2 a.m., or they could set up shop in a parking lot and attract more people.

Mark Willingham, who wrote the ordinance, explained that it is designed to maximize benefits to retailers and the city.

"The idea of this ordinance is not to be restrictive. The idea is to help manage," he said.

Under the plan, the city would provide information on how to hire and train employees and ensure bars have a sound business policy, which includes things like posting signs and limiting drink specials. The ordinance would also teach employees how to regulate alcohol consumption.

When asked if he thought it was a good idea, Craig Barfield, general manager at Amsterdam Sky Café, said yes and no.

"For the Super Bowl coming up, it's a great idea. For downtown Jacksonville, I am a little nervous about it," he said.

The matter has not been introduced to the council, but it's being discussed among members.

The Super Bowl host committee has not seen the plan and couldn't comment.