Washington’s downtown is set for a vibrant first full season at The Commons, and city leaders have taken a key step to enhance the experience—a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA). The Washington City Council recently approved the DORA ordinance, allowing adults 21 and older to purchase alcoholic beverages from approved vendors and carry them within a designated downtown area. The move aligns with Indiana’s 2023 law permitting municipalities to establish DORAs, a trend that has already been adopted by over 30 cities, including Jasper and Huntingburg. Mayor David Rhoads credited The Commons, a $3.1 million downtown gathering space, as the driving force behind the initiative. The DORA will streamline beer garden permits and allow visitors to enjoy a drink while strolling downtown, provided they use designated DORA cups and remain within the marked area. Businesses can opt in or out by displaying a city-provided decal. With First Fridays kicking off in April and the Farmers Market set to begin June 7, the city sees the DORA as a way to attract more people downtown. The program now awaits state approval before full implementation.
