KEY BISCAYNE, FLA. (WSVN) - Residents of the Village of Key Biscayne voiced their thoughts on the proposed relocation of the Ultra Music Festival right into their backyard.
Supporters and opponents of the proposal both voiced their thoughts to the Miami City Commission at the prospect of the festival being brought to Virginia Key.
“Virginia Key can’t handle this event. We can’t handle this event,” Mayor-Elect Michael Davey said at the hearing.
Earlier this week, Davey launched a campaign speaking against the festival’s proposal.
“This is about holding the City of Miami to the same standards it set for itself when it evicted the festival from Bayfront Park,” he said in a video.
Miami leaders were unimpressed with the mayor-elect’s efforts.
“The campaign that you have directed against this city has not gone over well,” Miami City Manager Emilio Gonzalez said.
Among the concerns were traffic and environmental concerns. Opponents argue there’s just a single road into and out of Key Biscayne.
“It would create a tremendous noise nuisance, and will in effect, shut down access to the most used roadway for leisure and recreation that ‘s in your jurisdiction,” said a woman against the proposal.
“Ultra provides incredibly positive energy, and I must say it is quite remarkable to experience,” said one supporter.
Representatives with Ultra Music Festival said false information has been circulating. They explained that only VIP ticket holders will be allowed to drive to the venue. The rest will be shuttled over the Rickenbacker Causeway.
Addressing concerns with the environment surrounding the venue, Ultra said sensitive structures and habitats will be fenced off.
The event used to be at Bayfront Park before it was voted out.
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