By A. Kevin Corvo

London and Madison County officials and developers are optimistic that the city’s newly enacted Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area, or DORA, will bolster London’s downtown, though some business owners are taking a wait-and-see approach.

London City Council voted 6-1 in last November to establish the DORA. The lone dissenter, Michael Norman, has since resigned from council after moving out of state.

Since 2015, Ohio law has allowed municipalities to create DORAs, setting specific guidelines, times and boundaries in which possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages are permitted outdoors in public rights of way.

Hilliard established a DORA in 2017 and later expanded its hours to coincide with activities in and around its historic district, including Hilliard’s Station Park. Dublin launched a DORA in 2021 covering its historic district and Bridge Park, a newer mixed-use development of restaurants and apartments along the Scioto River.

In London, the DORA boundaries are:

South Main Street from High Street to the second set of railroad tracks,

High Street from Main to Walnut Street; Second Street from South Oak Street to the alley east of Union Stree;t and First Street from South Oak Street to the alley east of Union Street.

Hours are 4 to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The DORA is not permitted on Sundays.

The schedule differs from the original proposal, which called for 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. Councilman Greg Eades proposed the amendment, which passed 5-2 in November with Councilmembers John Stahl and Shannon Treynor dissenting.

While the concept has proven successful in Dublin and Hilliard, some London business owners remain cautious.

“Places like Grove City and Hilliard are doing it and I understand the draw. You have a drink and you go down and shop, but I think it’s a little early for us here,” said Jerry Cullins, owner of Ronetti’s Pizza, a downtown landmark for 56 years. Cullins has owned the restaurant for 14 years.

“I don’t think we have enough storefronts open yet, especially into the evening. I think eventually, once we get a really solid downtown, you’ll be able to see the full impact of it.”

Madison County and London officials argue the DORA will help create that downtown growth.

“Having a DORA in London has the potential to boost local business and tourism, especially during downtown events, festivals and holiday festivities,” said Jon McKanna, director of the Madison County Chamber of Commerce.

McKanna acknowledged potential negative perceptions but noted that council included safeguards, such as requiring alcohol to be carried only in DORA-marked cups.

The goal is to increase participation in downtown events, encourage more tourists to visit and stimulate business by increasing revenue,” McKanna said.

London Mayor Patrick Closser said the DORA will be instrumental in revitalization, along with proposed commercial and entertainment projects such as West 40 Social, by Hilliard-based Westwood Collective.

“Establishing a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area is another important step in revitalizing our downtown and supporting local businesses,” Closser said. “This initiative encourages residents and visitors to enjoy everything our downtown has to offer. We’ve worked closely with business owners, public safety officials and community members to ensure the DORA is implemented responsibly and safely. It’s about creating a welcoming environment that boosts economic activity while maintaining the unique character of our town.”