Elkhart opened up its downtown in a new way, rolling out its Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area, or DORA, during Wednesday’s Art Walk.

The program allowed people to buy alcoholic drinks from participating businesses and carry them outside within set downtown boundaries.

City leaders and business owners said the goal was to bring more foot traffic, strengthen connections between shops and restaurants, and create a more walkable downtown experience.

The DORA covered much of the downtown area, stretching toward Third Street and including most of the riverfront walk.

City leaders said business leaders pushed for the change.