Gorge Expansion Debated

The proposal, which would reportedly add more than 1,000 camping and RV sites in addition to cabins, a restaurant, café, shops, an outdoor cinema and more stage space, isn’t going over so well with some locals who say concertgoers are trespassing and littering on their property.

“I’ve had feces in my yard (from concertgoers), loud music playing until 4:30 in the morning, and I’ve had enough,” resident Patrick Escure said during a planning meeting, according to the Seattle Times.

“You’ve built a candy store, and the kids in the store are just running amok. Now you’re going to give them a bigger candy store? That just doesn’t make sense,” resident Jack Kling added, complaining his neighbors’ driveways have been blocked by patrons that also left garbage in their yards.

Members of the Grant County Planning Commission have recommended allowing The Gorge to expand with zoning that would control where the venue could build and the type of sewer facilities it would have, and offer protections to the neighbors, the paper said.

Live Nation Seattle President Jeff Trisler told Pollstar the proposal aims to improve infrastructure and enhance amenities offered at the Gorge.

“The 20-year plan, if approved, will enable us to improve the camping experience, provide a more extensive food and beverage offering and a better merchandise experience,” he said. “We are currently meeting with our neighbors to explain what we are proposing and address any concerns they may have.”

The commission is scheduled to decide on the matter during an Aug. 6 meeting.