DORA established in Greensburg

Apr. 2—GREENSBURG — Greensburg has established a "Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area" (DORA) that includes the Greensburg Square area and follows a path on Main Street to Rebekah Park.

A DORA is a specially designated outside area in which the consumption of alcoholic beverages is permitted as long as a few requirements are met.

* Patrons 21+ are welcome to enjoy the DORA district.

* The DORA district can be utilized from 11 a.m. to midnight Saturday and Sunday.

* DORA beverages must be served in the DORA-approved cup. Approved vendors may purchase cups from Game Plan Graphics by calling (812) 663-3238.

* Businesses participating in the DORA designation will mark themselves with a special sticker signifying participation.

* Patrons may not carry DORA beverages into another establishment that serves alcoholic beverages.

* DORA beverages must remain within the DORA boundary.

* Glass containers with alcohol in them are not permitted within the DORA boundary.

Possessing an open container of alcoholic beverage in a motor vehicle is against state law and may constitute a Class C infraction under IC 9-30-15(3).

Patrons may not carry DORA beverages into a merchant's business unless the owner approves; look for approved signage indication beverages are welcome.

Currently, two approved vendors, the tAAp and The Beach Tiki Bar and Grill, are permitted to sell beverages in the specially marked cups designated for use within the DORA.

Temporary vendors (food trucks, shops having special events, etc.) may apply for permits to sell beverages from the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commissioners and from the City of Greensburg.

City officials think this will be a great opportunity for festivals and other events.

For example, vendors will be permitted to host "Sip and Stroll" and "Bourbon/Wine Trail" type events.

During festivals on the Square and at Rebekah Park events, vendors selling alcoholic beverages will be eligible to sell them without establishing beer or wine gardens for their patrons.

Public opinion concerning the DORA in Greensburg is mixed.

Vendors electing to participate seem pleased and positive about the outcomes of events with the DORA in place. Other vendors were either unaware of the DORA or were opposed to it.

"DORA is a really exciting development that's going to help drive economic development in our community," Visit Greensburg (Tourism) Director Philip Deiwert said. "It's going to be great for residents and visitors alike to be able to purchase a drink at an establishment downtown and then walk around and shop, go to the Farmers Market, or stop in at the Visitor Center."

For more information about the DORA go to www.cityofgreensburg.com/visit/designated-outdoor-refreshment-area-dora.

Contact Bill Rethlake at 812-651-0876 or email bill.rethlake@greensburgdailynews.com.