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March 23, 2018

Waterfront Concerts proposes permanent venue in Bangor

Courtesy / Waterfront Concerts Quarterback-turned-singer Sam Hunt drew a big crowd in Bangor this summer for Waterfront Concerts. This week, Waterfront Concerts promoter Alex Gray is seeking a long-term lease extension on city-owned land in order to build a permanent open-air venue.

Waterfront Concerts promoter Alex Gray is seeking a long-term lease extension on city-owned land in order to build a permanent open-air venue.

The Bangor Daily News reported that Gray presented the plan to officials at the Bangor City Council’s Business and Economic Development Committee meeting on Tuesday. The plan includes building a structure around the Darling’s Waterfront outdoor concert venue, with a permanent stage, seating, concessions, VIP areas, bathrooms and upgraded security; and an extension on his 10-year contract to 30 or 40 years. The venue would accommodate 17,000 patrons, 3,000 more than current capacity. The estimated cost of $17 million to $19 million would be largely paid for by Waterfront Concerts and Live Nation, Gray’s booking agent.

“I think the time is right to make these investments,” said Bangor City Council Chairman Ben Sprague.

Waterfront Concerts is the company that puts on Bangor's summertime music series on the banks of the Penobscot River. Gray signed a new 10-year contract with the city of Bangor last fall.

The new contract, which replaced one that had expired, will run until Nov. 1, 2027. At the time of its renewal, Waterfront Concerts cited a recent study by University of Maine economist Todd Gabe showing a $105.1 million contribution in revenue to Bangor and the surrounding areas from 2010-2016 from the concerts.

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