It wouldn't be a problem most times, but on things like Mardi Gras Night or NYE, it could lead to people crushed into the bollards. After this it's probably time to do it, but I can see where there were considerations that made it seem like a bad idea before this happened.
And, FWIW, I have many times walked into the old green poles they used to have on the cross streets. But that did not stop me from drinking more.