COLUMBUS, Ind. — An area downtown where of-age community members will be able to buy alcoholic drinks and carry them around will go into effect next weekend.
The city’s Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), to be known as the Columbus Downtown Social District, received the required sign-off from the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission (ATC) and will be in effect starting Dec. 7, according to Ike DeClue, executive director, Office of Downtown Development.
Starting in July of 2023, state law has given municipalities the ability to create DORAs, where those 21 and older may buy alcoholic beverages from approved vendors and retail establishments and carry them outside to be consumed within the DORA boundaries.
Columbus City Council members approved the establishment of the DORA earlier this year. The Columbus Downtown Social District will be operational seven days a week, 365 days a year, from 10 a.m. to midnight, according to the ordinance establishing the DORA.
So far, 29 other Indiana communities have taken advantage and created DORAs of their own, according to the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission website.
The boundaries of the DORA will be designated with signs and spots that take part in the Downtown Columbus Social District will have “a window cling” displayed near their entrance.
For the complete story, see Saturday’s Republic.
