Starting July 4th, bar-goers will be able to take and consume their drinks outdoors in Downtown Evansville.
This is thanks to the new Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA.) There are caveats — drinks that leave the establishment will be served in designated ‘DORA’ cups. These establishments are also operating within the boundaries of the DORA.
This program was brought to Evansville by the Evansville Economic Improvement District (EID). Executive Director Adam Trinkel submitted the DORA ordinance to the city council for the first time in February.
“We wanted to bring this to Evansville, we had seen the positive benefit that it brought to other cities and downtowns, and so we had a lot of conversations, did our due diligence there,” he said.
At the initial meeting, Trinkel shared the benefits of the DORA on other area. “It's a catalyst for economic growth and continues our efforts to build a more active and inclusive and vibrant downtown atmosphere,” he said. DORAs according to Trinkel, have been shown to attract foot traffic, benefiting restaurants, bars, retail shops, entertainment spaces and other businesses.
“This activity leads to higher sales, job creation, a stronger local economy through boosted business revenue and increased sales tax revenue," he said, adding that it also creates a shared community experience.
Trinkel said that these zones haven't shown to add to occurrences of drunk and disorderly conduct.
Downtown Evansville currently has 22 DORA establishments such as Arcademie, River Kittie Cat Cafe and Samuel’s.
There are 33 Indiana cities with DORA’s they include Boonville, Jasper, Kokomo and Fort Wayne. Others include Zionsville, Columbus and Batesville.
Evansville’s DORA has been in the works since this winter. The ordinance was approved by the city council in March. After approval, it had to be approved by the state.
Trinkel said Evansville’s DORA will be clearly marked with multiple elements.
“So the branded cup is one piece, and then there will be signage at each entry and exit point of the door, and that's intentional too, so that people know where they're allowed to carry out and drink the designated beverage.”
Learn more about the local DORA here
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