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Mayor Paul Soglin on Monday laid out parts of his proposed moratorium on new liquor licenses around Capitol Square and on State Street to allay his concerns that bars and restaurants have overtaken retail storefronts.

Soglin addressed members of the city's Plan Commission about the loss of shopping potential as entertainment businesses and rising rental prices are pushing retailers out. An initial proposal by Soglin would restrict any new liquor licenses for the area while the city goes forward with a study on the use of commercial space in the heart of Madison.

"What I'm deeply concerned about, as we lose one retailer after another, the consequence will be cascading," Soglin said.

The mayor hasn't proposed an ordinance yet but outlined a draft proposal for commission members. Any legislation would have to be approved by the City Council.

New liquor licenses would be barred, and existing businesses would be restricted from expanding their licenses under the proposal. The moratorium would apply to State Street, Capitol Square and at least two blocks in either direction of those areas.