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

A Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area will allow adults to purchase alcoholic beverages from licensed establishments using specially designated DORA drink containers and consume them within a 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:

• Clearly marked boundaries and limited hours of operation
• Approved and easily identifiable drink containers 
• Participation limited to licensed establishments that opt into the program
• Outlined hours and days when the DORA is effect enforced by local authorities and the Police Department

Downtown Fort Wayne

Mike Huber, Director of Development Services, stated, "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.”