The proposed Stow DORA would connect the under-construction AMP entertainment complex with businesses across Darrow Road, including Giant Eagle and Spicy Sombreros. A central question for the plan is how patrons would safely move between those locations while carrying drinks purchased from participating businesses.
Under the plan, DORA alcohol would have to be served in clearly marked, 16-ounce recyclable plastic cups purchased from the city, according to Cleveland.com. The zone would run from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, and any future changes to those hours or how the district operates would require city council approval.
The AMP itself is described as an outdoor entertainment complex under development in Stow, rising as part of the redevelopment of the former Town Centre shopping center at Norton and Darrow roads. The report notes the complex is expected to be completed next year.
Darrow Road Crossing Is a Key Safety Question
At a council meeting Sept. 24, members questioned whether Spicy Sombreros should be included because the restaurant is across Darrow Road, also known as Ohio 91, from the AMP site. Their concern was the safety of patrons crossing the busy road with drinks in hand.
Cleveland.com reported that crosswalk improvements near Darrow Road are planned. Police and fire officials are expected to develop an additional safety plan before the district moves forward.
Police Presence and Cleanup
Police presence is another part of the proposed operating plan. Cleveland.com reported that Bryan Snavely said officers intend to be visible in the DORA area, especially during larger events, with that presence expected to grow as the district develops.
The city would collect trash from public receptacles in the DORA. Participating businesses would handle trash and recycling on their own properties.
Economic Development and Local Models
Stow has looked to DORAs in Kent and Cuyahoga Falls as models for allowing patrons to move between businesses with drinks. City officials see the proposal as a way to build a dining and entertainment district around the AMP and potentially attract more businesses over time.
Cleveland.com reported that Cyle Feldman described the proposal as an economic development opportunity for Stow. Drew Reilly said the city carries no liability for people crossing the road within the district.
State Rules and Stow’s Next Steps
The permit holders identified as likely participants so far are Giant Eagle No. 4032 at 1700 Norton Road, Spicy Sombreros Mexican Grill at 4976 Darrow Road, and the City of Stow for the AMP.
What Ohio’s DORA Law Requires
Ohio sets different minimums for participating permit holders: a municipality with a population of 50,000 or less must include at least two qualified permit holders, while a larger municipality must include at least four, according to Ohio Revised Code Section 4301.82. The law also gives the city’s legislative authority the decision on the application: it must approve or reject it by ordinance or resolution no earlier than 30 days and no later than 60 days after the initial public notice. The proposed Stow operating hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, and changes to those hours or how the district operates would require council approval.
The proposed DORA would be marked with signs at its entrances and exits and reviewed annually. Stow City Council has advanced the proposal to a public hearing and scheduled a second reading as the process continues.
