Crown Point Launches Riverfront District, Boosts Liquor Licenses

BREAKING: Crown Point has officially established a new Riverfront District, paving the way for increased liquor licenses aimed at enhancing dining options in the city. The Crown Point City Council unanimously adopted the ordinance during a meeting on November 3, marking a significant shift in local business regulations.

Mayor Pete Land emphasized that this initiative is designed to attract fine dining establishments to the downtown area, despite the absence of an actual river. “We’re not building a river. We’re not doing anything with our water conveyance source,” Land clarified, addressing community concerns. The new district aims to foster businesses focused on dining experiences rather than stand-alone bars.

City Councilman Scott Evorik acknowledged recent backlash on social media, countering claims that the ordinance would lead to an influx of bars. “Instead of a McDonald’s or Wendy’s, we want more fine dining across the path,” he stated, reinforcing the ordinance’s intent to enhance the local culinary scene.

This ordinance empowers Crown Point officials to regulate future business applications more effectively. “It gives the city another tool in the toolbox,” Mayor Land said, highlighting its potential to shape the local economy. City Councilman Robert Clemons described the ordinance as a “gift” that will significantly contribute to downtown business growth.

The Riverfront District encompasses areas bounded by 101st Avenue to the north, Mississippi Street to the east, 113th Avenue to the south, and Madison Street to the west. Although Crown Point lacks a traditional river, Indiana law defines a riverfront to include water conveyance ditches, such as the Beaver Dam Ditch, which flows through the proposed district.

Land explained that the district’s creation has been under consideration for some time, with hopes to boost both local and regional tourism. The city will offer 15 riverfront liquor licenses, which can be used as one, two, or three-way licenses, with a fee of $25,000 per license. Each application must demonstrate how the establishment will attract visitors through a dining and entertainment experience rather than merely serving alcohol.

Interested applicants will need to submit a business plan, workforce data, and details on improvements to their facilities. The Crown Point Redevelopment Commission will review applications, forwarding their recommendations to the mayor’s office, which will then relay findings to the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission.

The funds generated from these licenses will contribute to the city’s redevelopment fund, supporting the maintenance of the Riverfront District and various community projects.

In related news, the city council also approved a special use resolution for a new fitness facility, Club Pilates, to take over the previous Stride Fitness location at 10835 Broadway. Club owner James Lemons expressed excitement about expanding his business into Crown Point, marking a positive addition to the community.

Stay tuned for more updates on how this new ordinance will reshape Crown Point’s dining landscape and contribute to local business growth.