Downtown Concierge

DORA for Businesses

In partnership with the City of Columbus, Capital Crossroads Special Improvement District, and the Franklinton Board of Trade, CDDC is excited to lead the effort to bring a new Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) to Downtown Columbus, seamlessly integrating with Franklinton.  

We listened to the community during the 2022 Downtown Strategic Plan process, and their desire was clear: they want more – more activity, more shopping and dining experiences, enhanced connectivity within Downtown and to key neighborhoods. A DORA is a powerful tool to help realize the vision outlined by Columbus residents by increasing the vibrancy of the pedestrian experience, the economic impact of Downtown visitors, and the connectivity between Downtown establishments and events.  

What is a DORA?

In the State of Ohio, a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area, or DORA, is a specified area of land that a local legislative authority (city council or township trustees) has designated as exempt from certain open container provisions as laid out in Ohio Revised Code Section 4301.82. A DORA allows visitors aged 21 and older to consume alcoholic beverages purchased from participating businesses outdoors within the area’s boundaries, during designated hours, and according to DORA rules.

Hours of Operation: 

The proposed DORA would operate seven days a week from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. 

 

 

Tell Us What You Think

Tell us what you think about the proposed Center City DORA by filling out this survey. Public input will be used to guide the application process. 

A designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) is a defined area where adults 21+ can purchase one beverage from a participating establishment and walk with it in the public right of way, allowing for longer visits to the area, increased spending and greater connectivity between nodes of activity.
The proposed boundaries can be seen in the map above and the suggested hours of operation are 11 am – 10 pm, 7 days a week.