It's an idea, Wichita Mayor Carl Brewer said, could help develop downtown. Creating an entertainment district would mean people could walk around with alcoholic drinks in designated areas. But for Wichita to get the "district" it must first look to the state for the okay.

"I've talked to other cities about what they think about it and they're saying it could benefit us also," said Carl Brewer, the Wichita Mayor.

"I think it's good to see city leaders and county leaders working to energize the area around the arena," said State Representative Jim Ward, (D) Wichita.

It's not a new concept, but Brewer claims it's worth taking a look at. Creating an entertainment district: a strict, designated, possibly fenced area downtown that would allow people to venture from one venue the next with alcoholic beverages in hand.

"If you look at Bricktown, Power and Light, Old Town, there are some similarities between the two," said Brewer.

For the city to have this area, whether it's just during events like Riverfest, final Friday or year round, state lawmakers would have to make some exceptions to the state liquor laws for the proposed area.

"The city will put it together in their packet of things they bring to the legislature. It's going to be a busy year in Topeka," said Ward. "This doesn't cost money, so it has a much better chance of getting a hearing and having action taken."

"Currently, we have it as an agenda item or part of our state legislative issues. Our lobbyists will take it to Topeka and hopefully we can get some type of bill," said Brewer.

State leaders said laws involving alcohol tend to be controversial so the city would have to prove the change would enhance Wichita's entertainment value, provide an economic boost and be done safely.

"In Kansas City, they have the ability and it's been very affective," said Ward.

State lawmakers like Jim Ward said it's an idea that could bring new life to Wichita, something most city's look forward to, especially right now.

"Anything that moves us forward, economically in these times of challenge is a positive thing," said Ward.

City officials said they're getting feedback from interest groups around the city right now before going to city council. The council would finalize the idea for the December 2nd agenda.

State leaders say if the move makes it to Topeka, it could be passed May. It would then come back to the city for specific zoning.