Wichita's Entertainment Overlay District
Monday, November 17, 2008
On November 19th at 5:30 at CityArts, John D'Angelo, Director of Arts and Cultural Services, has invited YPs to engage in a discussion regarding the possibility of Wichita seeking to develop an Entertainment District. This district, much like the Power and Light District in Kansas City, would allow alcoholic beverages to be consumed in the streets in designated areas. Because this action will require state legislation, the City is hoping to hear feedback and input from interest groups and citizens before proceeding.
Can't join us at this time but still have thoughts you want shared? Share them here and I'll be sure to pass them along that evening!
posted by Heather Denker at
3:30 PM
3 Comments:
An "Entertainment Overlay District" (EOD) sounds like a fantastic idea. However, there are many issues that must properly be considered.
For example, assuming the EOD is located at or near Old Town, how would this location errode business in Old Town?
An EOD which allows alcohol consumption "in public" will require additional law enforcement. Is the city willing to commit additional police to this district? What effect will this additional police commitment have on other neighborhoods? Will any neighborhood patrols be adversely affected?
Finally, a glut of bars is not the way to go. Different forms of entertainment would be much appreciated. For example, a "not seedy" dance club that hosts a variety of music, such as Latin dancing.
Thank you all for your time.
November 17, 2008 4:24 PM
Having just recently visited P&L in Kansas City, I fully support a similar idea for Wichita.
My only concern would be the numbers of consumers required to make it a success. Kansas City is so much bigger than Wichita, which I have to believe is part of the reason it has worked so well for them - the sheer number of people in the area.
Maybe a mini-district as a test phase would be a good first step, keeping in mind the idea (and room) to expand if it is successful.
November 18, 2008 1:54 PM
I'd like to see a grocery store, bowling alley, cafes, things like that intermixed with the bars and clubs.
November 19, 2008 11:40 AM
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