YOUNGSTOWN -  Youngstown is the latest city to propose the  idea of creating a designated outdoor refreshment area--also known as D.O.R.A.

The space would be the fifth in the Mahoning Valley that would allow adults to carry alcoholic drinks throughout its downtown.

On Wednesday, city council members hosted a public hearing as the second step in this process to establish one. The goal of the hearing was to allow the public to offer feedback about their proposed plan. 

If passed, the D.O.R. A. would span 34.42 acres downtown, with signs designating the space. Adults who participate would be required to wear a wristband and use a special cup.

During the public hearing, one citizen raised safety concerns.

"My concern is with the fact that we have a police shortage. And bringing this into play is going to take away from the neighborhoods if something should happen," the Youngstown resident said. 

In response to that comment, city leaders said the Youngstown Police Department would not work alone to keep the area safe. Trained ambassadors from local organization, Economic Action Group, will help monitor the area.

"The ambassadors [will] watch everybody going from place to place, notifying the police if there's a problem" 1st Ward Councilman, Julius Oliver said. 

The idea for the project is to help inject new life into the heart of the city.

"This is a way to not only infuse the downtown with more people, but also attract more businesses in a way that will support the businesses that we already have as well," Oliver told 21 News.

If passed, the D.O.R.A. would be in effect Thursday and Friday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturdays between noon and 11 p.m. and run year-round. 

City council will vote to approve it during their first meeting in October.