Multi-year event permit for Meadows concert granted | Local News

A multi-year special event permit for a concert series at The Meadows in Chaffee County, Colorado, has been approved by the Board of County Commissioners. The decision, reached on February 17th, greenlights events from September 17-21 and sets the stage for a three-year run, though the path to approval involved previous hearings and a prior denial.

A Long Road to Approval

The permit allows for amplified music until 11 p.m. On Fridays and Saturdays, and until 10 p.m. On Sundays. Attendance is capped at 11,000, with an additional 600 staff members, and 500 “locals only” tickets will be available on Sunday. Sound levels will adhere to those established during a previous August event – 105 dBa and 117 dBc – after considerable discussion.

Did You Know? $2 from every ticket sold will be allocated to a charitable fund, as will all revenue generated from the Sunday “locals only” tickets.

Addressing Concerns

County Planner Nick Gomer noted the event dates do not conflict with other approved events or holiday weekends, addressing previous concerns. Referral agencies were contacted, with the Chaffee County Fire Protection District confirming their ability to support the event. Responses from the Sheriff and EMS were pending at the time of the vote. The town of Buena Vista (BV) expressed ongoing concerns regarding traffic, anticipating a traffic plan 90 days prior to the event.

Collaboration and Community Engagement

Michael Sampliner, representing the applicant, stated that solutions had been found to address previously raised issues. He confirmed that emergency teams are committed to the event and that ongoing communication with neighbors continues. To mitigate traffic impacts, Meadow Creek will share its traffic team with organizers of the annual Autumn Run. Participants from a previously internal Meadows running race will now join the Autumn Run, and volunteers for the race will receive complimentary concert tickets.

Expert Insight: The approval process highlights the complex balancing act between economic development through events and the need to address potential impacts on local services and quality of life for residents. The emphasis on collaboration and mitigation strategies suggests a proactive approach to managing these challenges.

Financial Viability and Future Plans

Sampliner explained that the capacity increase is crucial for the long-term financial viability of the venue, stating that last summer’s events were not profitable. The goal is to attract “major world-class acts.” Meadow Creek will also provide tables for the BV Strong Community Dinner, effectively halving the event’s costs. Monday egress, mirroring the success of the August event, is planned, with traffic potentially reduced by 8-12% compared to mid-August, according to Colorado Department of Transportation statistics.

Ongoing Coordination with Local Authorities

A meeting is scheduled for April with BV Police Chief Dean Morgan, Chaffee Sheriff Andy Rohrich, the Colorado State Patrol, and the Colorado Department of Transportation to finalize the traffic plan. Security measures have been a focus, with Meadow Creek’s security teams prepared to assist EMS and potentially detain individuals if needed. Sheriff Rohrich, while acknowledging improvements in security, voiced continued concerns about staffing demands.

Addressing Staffing and Resource Concerns

Annie Carlson, Buena Vista’s special events coordinator, echoed concerns about staffing for the September 14th community dinner, which relies on the Sheriff’s Department for support. Chaffee EMS Director Josh Hadley indicated the department will provide an ambulance for the event and is vetting medical vendors to ensure adequate staffing. Josh Chance, a local land manager, is overseeing tree trimming and fencing improvements around the Meadows.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the approved dates for the concert series?

The concert series is approved for September 17-21.

What is the maximum attendance allowed at the event?

The maximum attendance is 11,000, plus 600 staff, with an additional 500 “locals only” tickets available on Sunday.

What steps are being taken to address traffic concerns?

Meadow Creek will share its traffic team with the Autumn Run organizers, establish walk-and-bike routes, and partner with Mountain Valley Transit to provide four shuttle buses. A detailed traffic plan will be finalized in April with input from local law enforcement and transportation agencies.

As the event approaches, it remains to be seen how effectively the planned mitigation strategies will address concerns regarding traffic, staffing, and community impact. Will the increased capacity translate into the desired economic benefits for the region?