Newton considers common consumption area for downtown

NEWTON, Kan. (KWCH) — The city of Newton is considering a common consumption area downtown. Newton Main Street presented the idea to city commissioners on Tuesday.

A common consumption area is a designated area where patrons of legal age may carry and consume alcoholic beverages purchased from licensed local establishments. The beverages must be in approved containers and consumed within the defined public areas and in participating businesses.

Presenters said the purpose is to create a lively, pedestrian-oriented environment while supporting local vendors. It encourages people to linger outdoors and move freely between businesses while enjoying their drinks, increasing foot traffic and revenue.

Earlier this year, the Wichita City Council adopted a common consumption area for the Delano District. Other cities like Augusta, Salina, Manhattan, Hays and Liberal have passed similar measures for their downtown areas.

Newton Police Chief Craig Dunlavy told the commission he didn’t anticipate unmanageable issues, especially with clearly marked boundaries and times.

Newton Main Street said the common consumption area can be a recruitment tool for new businesses, particularly a Newton brewery.

The city said that a number of downtown Newton businesses have expressed interest in participating if a district is established.