WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - There’s an effort underway in Wichita’s Delano District to declare a portion of the neighborhood a common consumption area. This would allow people to carry and drink alcohol publicly within a designated area.

Delano business owners report hearing a lot of buzz about the potential change from their customers. It’s an idea they think could be beneficial to the community. Delano has become a downtown staple for Wichita when it comes to community events and nightlife. Now, it could be the first in Sedgwick County to become a common area for consumption.

The proposed area would be in downtown Delano, stretching from the river all the way down to Seneca.

“I think it’s a great idea. I think it would add a lot of activity to the community and as long as people conduct themselves within reason,” said Delano patron Chris Fox.

Wichita City Councilmember Dalton Glasscock, representing District 4 that includes Delano, voiced support for the idea earlier this month.

“It’s a way to set the Delano District apart from everywhere else in the community,” Glasscock said.

“Delano is the perfect area for common consumption due to its walkability and businesses feeding off one another. WBC would love for our Guests to be able to participate if they choose,” the business said.

As for Delano regulars like Fox, they say it’d be a smart move on the city’s end.

“People come down here and drink anyway, you know you don’t want to look over your shoulder, so why not have a place where people feel comfortable to do that,” Fox said.