City of Elkhart Proposes Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area

Elkhart, Ind. — The Elkhart City Council voted to move forward to a second reading  the proposed creation of a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA).

A Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area allows adults to purchase alcoholic beverages from participating, licensed establishments using specially designated DORA drink containers. And consume them within a clearly defined area, only during approved hours. The program is intended to complement existing businesses and community events while maintaining strong oversight and public safety standards. 

The proposed DORA would feature:

City leaders emphasized that the program is not an open drinking policy.

“This proposal is about creating a more vibrant, walkable downtown while keeping clear rules and local control in place. I think it will be especially relevant during Jazz Fest and other downtown celebrations. This allows people to not be restricted to one small designated area. Instead, they can eat and drink while enjoying the full experience of our downtown.” said Mike Huber, Director of Development Services “It’s a tool many Indiana communities (Mishawaka, Carmel, Ft. Wayne, Richmond, Westfield, Huntington, Kokomo, Evansville, and others)  are using to strengthen their downtowns and support small businesses.”

“A DORA helps encourage people to spend more time downtown, visit multiple businesses, and enjoy community events,” said Mayor Rod Roberson "When we host Art Walk Wednesdays in the summer, now residents won't be tied to one establishment but can enjoy art all along the main street corridor while enjoying a glass of wine at the same time."