KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Knoxville City Council approved a plan Tuesday, May 26, to allow outdoor alcohol consumption in a designated area surrounding Covenant Health Park.
The measure establishes a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area, or DORA, near the new stadium, home to the Knoxville Smokies and One Knox SC. The plan allows Boyd Sports to manage alcohol sales and consumption within the district.
City leaders said the Tennessee Legislature previously authorized alcohol sales outside the stadium, leaving it up to the city to define the boundaries and operational details.
The approved DORA includes four public plazas adjacent to mixed-use developments, including residential units, retail businesses and restaurants. Participating establishments will be permitted to sell beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages that customers can carry outside within the designated zone.
To participate, businesses must apply and use specially marked cups identifying drinks as part of the DORA program.
City officials say the program is similar to one launching in Market Square and modeled after successful outdoor drinking districts in other cities.
Mayor Indya Kincannon said if the initiative proves successful, Knoxville could consider expanding DORA zones to other parts of the city.
The program is tentatively expected to begin operating in mid-July.
