Gorge Amphitheatre expansion won’t come soon

EPHRATA, Wash. – Gorge Amphitheatre general manager Danny Wilde said it would be at least 2016 before concertgoers see more camping, retail space or an outdoor cinema at the world-renowned venue.

During a recent meeting with local officials, Wilde said he wants to focus on building a security fence, studying traffic concerns and keeping neighbors happy before expanding the venue.

The meeting was about signing a 2015 concert management agreement between the involved government entities and Live Nation, the company that owns the venue.

“We’re not trying to be Disneyland. Concerts and festivals have always been our main focus and will continue to be,” he said after the meeting.

In March, Live Nation submitted a zoning change request that would allow them to become a master planned resort. Grant County commissioners and the county planning board approved that zoning change in August after strong public outcry against the expansion from the farmers and senior citizens who live near the venue.

In that application, the company details what they plan to add to the venue and when they plan to add it. Phase 1 of the expansion, which includes adding 1,000 camping spaces, a cafe and bar, recreational improvements like a volleyball court, and an outdoor cinema, would take place between the first and fourth year.

Wilde said that was more like a wish list than marching orders. The venue is focused on soothing neighbors’ concerns, fixing septic problems and constructing a security fence before the 2015 concert season starts, not adding more camping spaces or a cinema.

During the meeting, Grant County Commissioner Cindy Carter said the complaints from neighbors increased even though fewer patrons were hospitalized and sheriff’s deputies arrested fewer people.