Crown Point is considering the adoption of a riverfront district. Photo from Visit Indiana.

News Release

CROWN POINT — Crown Point officials are moving ahead with plans to create a new riverfront district that would make 15 additional liquor licenses available to local businesses.

The riverfront district proposal passed its first reading at Monday, Oct. 6’s City Council meeting and will require a second reading and final adoption before taking effect. The district would cover the city’s east side, bordered by Mississippi Street to the east, Madison Street to the west, 101st Avenue to the north and 113th Avenue to the south.

Under the plan, businesses within the district could apply for one-, two-, or three-way liquor licenses. Each license would cost $25,000, with proceeds going into the city’s redevelopment fund to support maintenance and future projects managed by the Crown Point Redevelopment Commission.

City leaders emphasized that the goal is to attract restaurants and entertainment venues that enhance the community’s appeal rather than focus solely on alcohol sales. Applicants would be required to submit business plans, workforce data, and details about planned improvements to their properties.

Although Crown Point has no major river, city officials said the Beaver Dam Ditch qualifies under Indiana law as a “riverfront,” making the district eligible under state regulations.

Mayor Pete Land said the district is intended to build on the success of Crown Point’s downtown area, which has seen steady growth in locally owned businesses.