NOBLESVILLE, Ind. — Another central Indiana community has received approval for an outdoor refreshment area.
The City of Noblesville announced Thursday, July 25 that the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission had approved its ordinance to establish a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) in downtown Noblesville, which it says will be the first in Hamilton County.
13News has previously reported that Carmel has proposed a DORA along the Monon Trail, while Westfield's DORA plan had been sent to the state commission for full approval.
"The district will increase foot traffic, tourism, and spending in the downtown, building on our commitment to supporting our small, locally-owned businesses," Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen said in a statement. "The city has worked closely with local stakeholders, including Noblesville Police Department, to ensure the district is enjoyed safely and responsibly by our community, visitors and business owners."
The area will allow people 21 and older to purchase alcoholic drinks from approved businesses within the DORA and carry them within the DORA boundaries.
The city said the DORA will be operational this fall.
"Beverages may be taken around the designated DORA, either while relaxing outdoors, enjoying one of the many downtown events or while shopping at retailers permitting DORA beverages in their businesses," the city says in a post on its website.
The city lists increased downtown tourism, a new revenue source for restaurants and bars and an easier process for organizers hosting downtown events among the benefits of a DORA.
More information on the Noblesville DORA, including participating businesses and its boundaries, can be found at this link.
