MANHATTAN (KSNT) - People may soon be able to openly carry alcoholic beverages in downtown Manhattan. Manhattan city leaders plan to discuss a common consumption ordinance at a city commission meeting on Tuesday, March 25. If approved, it would create a drinking zone, allowing patrons to grab dri nks from participating businesses and walk around in the nearby area. Map: which Kansas counties have the most excessive drinkers? City leaders started thinking about adopting the ordinance back in September last year. A co-owner of Manhattan Brewing Company, Jake Voegeli, said his brewery would benefit from the change. "I think it could have a big economic impact," Voegeli said. "We could do more events outside. More events like closing off the streets and it makes it a lot easier for us to do really awesome, cool events downtown. " This ordinance is similar to those that Topeka and Emporia have enacted. Governor Laura Kelly signed off on a state law in 2023 allowing for common consumption zones to be established in Kansas. Wamego OZ Museum reopens after significant renovation work For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. ...read more read less