How Ohio's D.O.R.A. Program Revitalized Small Businesses: Municipal Brew Works’ Perspective
In the wake of the pandemic, businesses worldwide faced unprecedented challenges, with breweries and small establishments particularly feeling the pinch of lockdowns and restrictions. However, amidst the adversity, Ohio's D.O.R.A. (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) program emerged as a beacon of hope for many, offering a lifeline to businesses grappling with closures and plummeting revenues.
The Brewery Explorers Podcast delved into how this innovative initiative revitalized communities, with a focus on the transformative impact it has had on breweries like Municipal Brew Works in Hamilton, Ohio.
The Brewery Explorers sat down with Jim Goodman, co-founder of Municipal Brew Works, where he shared insights into the profound changes the D.O.R.A. program brought to their business landscape.
Hamilton, Ohio, where Municipal Brew Works is located, was an early adopter of the D.O.R.A. concept.
During the podcast, Jim said he attended several remote video meetings discussing the D.O.R.A. program with Hamilton’s city leaders during the pandemic.
For Municipal Brew Works, embracing D.O.R.A. was nothing short of a game-changer, especially amid the turbulent times of the pandemic. Initially, the brewery had seven establishments participating in D.O.R.A., but this number will swell to an impressive 33 by the end of this year, Jim said during the podcast. Hamilton's D.O.R.A. district boasts one of the largest acreages in Ohio, fostering a vibrant outdoor culture that proved invaluable during COVID-19.
The significance of the D.O.R.A. program became glaringly evident as the pandemic forced closures and restrictions on indoor dining and gatherings. While manufacturing entities like Municipal Brew Works were classified as essential and allowed to remain operational, their taproom business faced substantial hurdles. However, with D.O.R.A., patrons could enjoy their favorite brews outdoors, providing a much-needed avenue for revenue generation and customer engagement.
One of the most striking aspects highlighted by Goodman was the surge in taproom foot traffic despite dwindling distribution numbers. As bars and restaurants shuttered their doors, Municipal Brew Works became a beacon of hospitality for locals eager to enjoy a refreshing pint in the open air. The brewery's pet-friendly patio and proximity to the Great Miami Riverway further enhanced its appeal, drawing patrons seeking leisurely strolls and scenic vistas.
Despite the program's undeniable benefits, Goodman acknowledged encountering resistance from some quarters. Concerns over public safety and nuisance were raised, with fears of inebriated individuals endangering themselves or others. However, Goodman dispelled such apprehensions, citing the absence of any incidents in the six-year history of Hamilton's D.O.R.A. district. Instead, he emphasized the program's role in fostering economic growth and enhancing the local experience.
Beyond its immediate impact on businesses, D.O.R.A. has broader implications for community dynamics and quality of life. By affording patrons the flexibility to enjoy alcoholic beverages while exploring adjacent establishments or engaging in recreational activities, D.O.R.A. promotes a vibrant, interconnected ecosystem. Goodman aptly highlighted how it enables individuals to maximize their time, seamlessly blending leisure and commerce without constraints.
Looking ahead, Goodman said his brewery is poised for further expansion, with plans underway for a hotel adjacent to its second taproom. The symbiotic relationship between the brewery and the proposed Marriott Tribute brand hotel exemplifies the adaptive reuse of historic buildings, epitomizing Hamilton's evolution as a destination for both locals and visitors alike.
Ohio's D.O.R.A. program stands as a testament to the power of innovation in revitalizing communities and supporting small businesses. Through collaborative efforts and forward-thinking policies, municipalities can create inclusive environments where entrepreneurship thrives, paving the way for a brighter, more resilient future.
As we raise our glasses to the resilience of small businesses like Municipal Brew Works, we must also celebrate the transformative potential of initiatives like D.O.R.A. in shaping vibrant, thriving communities. Cheers to a future filled with shared experiences, cherished moments, and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.
