Getting alcoholic drinks to go may soon be coming to Downtown, Franklinton
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Adults may soon be able to get their alcoholic drinks to go when visiting Downtown and Franklinton.
Columbus is considering a proposal to create a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area, or DORA, that includes parts of those neighborhoods, which border each other along the Scioto River. DORA is a state program established in 2015 that creates designated areas for those 21 and older to walk around with alcoholic beverages served by participating businesses and sold in designated cups, as an exception to open container laws.
The City Center DORA was discussed last week at Land-Grant Brewing in Franklinton, which falls inside the proposed area, in an event that featured councilmembers Nicholas Bankston and Chris Wyche, among others.
Superman movie filming in Ohio to cast locals as extras
A presentation from Downtown Columbus Inc. showed the proposed boundaries, hours of operation -- 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily -- and an estimated late May launch, pending City Council approval.
"For myself as an operator, to be able to be part of developing this DORA, I think it’s a great opportunity to really connect the city," Adam Benner of Land-Grant Brewing Company said.
He said the DORA could help local businesses recover after recent economic struggles.
"We’re still feeling the effects of what happened a couple years ago, so this is an opportunity to get more people in our doors and get more people excited," Benner said.
Animal advocates call for change to Ohio law after viral video
Others spoke up in support of the DORA, too.
"People-centered initiatives like this add the livability element, the appeal and the vibrancy to this special community that we call home," Mindy Justis of the Downtown Residents Association said.
And resident Danielle Perry said, "When I go Downtown, it’s in and out. I’m there for whatever it is, and then I’m going home or some other area, so it is nice to have that option in addition to the ones that are already available."
Giving a statement in opposition was Londale Towns Sr., a behavioral health counselor who said he knows the damage alcohol addiction and irresponsible drinking can do. He said he wants measures in place to ensure people struggling with alcohol addiction can be exposed to resources to point them in the right direction.
Police: 20 cars have windows smashed at N. High St. restaurant
City council is expected to vote on the proposal sometime in April or May.
Details on the full proposal can be found in the 43-page document below.
2024-center-city-dora-applicationDownload
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
