Muncie opens 3 new designated outdoor refreshment areas

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Hoosiers have three new Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas to enjoy in Muncie.

The new DORAs opened Monday in downtown Muncie, the McKinley neighborhood, and the Ball State University village.

These special districts allow people ages 21 and up to purchase alcoholic beverages in specially marked cups from participating bars and restaurants and enjoy them within designated boundaries.

Councilwomen Ro Selvey and Sara Gullion proposed the initiative in a city ordinance last September. The DORAs were approved by the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission in May.

“This is about enhancing the vibrancy of Muncie’s cultural and entertainment hubs while supporting our local businesses,” Mayor Dan Ridenour said in a release. “We thank the City Council for approving the ordinance and we are proud of the hard work our administration has done to make sure each DORA is safe, functional, and enjoyable for everyone.”

Each DORA district will have clear signage, boundary markers, and maps available online and on-site to guide residents and visitors.

The districts will operate seven days a week from 12 a.m. to 12 p.m., unless otherwise restricted by special events or public safety needs. Participating businesses will have a DORA window cling to indicate their involvement.

Indiana communities with active DORAs include: Bargersville, Carmel, Columbus, Fort Wayne, Greensburg, Kokomo, Lafayette, Logansport, Mishawaka, New Albany, Noblesville, Richmond, Shelbyville, Speedway, Tipton, Valparaiso, Westfield, Winona Lake, and Zionsville.

Participating Muncie Businesses

In May, city officials released a list of businesses expected to take part in the new DORAs.

These establishments include:

Downtown DORA | The Clubhouse Muncie, Vera Maes Bistro, Heorot, Ron Lahody’s Trust Your Butcher Steakhouse, Case Del Sol, Twin Archer Brew Pub, Downtown Farmhouse/Second Story, 1925 Pubhouse, Little Chicago’s.

BSU Village DORA |  Roots Burger Bar, Brothers Bar & Grill, Greeks Pizzeria, Lacasa Restaurant and Bar.

McKinley DORA | Elm Street Brewing, 7 Rock Brew.

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