Why More Sound Mitigation Was Added Just Weeks Before Ford Amphitheater's Second Season Kickoff

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COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KKTV) — In under a month, the Ford Amphitheater will welcome visitors for its sophomore season. The inaugural event on April 30 features 'Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit.' By this Friday, several developments have taken place. 23 shows scheduled from the summer until September. This marks the venue’s inaugural complete season. As you might recall, Ford Amphitheater launched operations last August and ran till October.

"The upcoming season will feature a complete lineup with an extensive range of performances, including many distinct bands expected to attract larger crowds," stated Chloe Hoef, who represents Venu as their spokesperson.

This year, the location aims to provide increased noise reduction for the communities in Northern Colorado Springs. These measures follow hundreds of complaints flowed into the City of Colorado Springs and the venue itself during its initial months of performances last year.

Currently, work is progressing on building two noise barriers for the North and South concourses. These constructions are scheduled to be completed before the start of the upcoming season’s first event.

"Before, there was a noise barrier at the rear followed by several distinct operational and physical measures aimed at reducing noise. The new barriers will build upon these efforts, preventing sounds from escaping both the northern and southern sections of the concourses," explained Hoeft.

Ford Amphitheater in Colorado Springs has specific requirements they must adhere to as mandated by local authorities. Early this year, Mayor Yemi Mobolade approved their noise permit under certain conditions. Alongside installing sound barriers, they'll establish five monitoring stations within nearby neighborhoods to track audio levels during events. If the volume exceeds the permitted threshold by more than six decibels at any point, Ford Amphitheater faces a penalty of $500 for every occurrence. Additionally, they're obligated to develop corrective measures for such situations.

The group, Ford Hurts Families , conveyed this message to 11 News regarding the necessary enhancements.

If the amphitheater begins adhering strictly to the 50 dB(A) local noise regulations set by the city and state, it would indeed warrant celebration. Conversely, should the music volume persistently surpass these thresholds and disturb everyday activities for residents nearby, then this year’s adjustments might be perceived merely as cosmetic improvements masking deeper problems. Consequently, those living close by could endure similar levels of harmful disruption experienced previously.

Ford Hurts Families

Venu needs to submit information from the sound monitoring stations to the city authorities after each concert.