RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - If you've strolled along Tredegar Street, you can't help but notice the large, vibrant truck featuring "Waterfront RVA" painted on it.
The company provides kayaks and paddleboards for hire.
Benjamin Moore says that 12 On Your Side has had consistent access to his company for many years, but this summer, things took a different turn.
He mentions that the road closures and restricted parking on concert days at the Allianz Amphitheater are significantly affecting his business, stating to 12 On Your Side that he has received multiple last-minute cancellations from customers.
They come down here, see the road closures and the heavy traffic, and they'll say, 'Oh, we'll come another day or do something else,'" said Moore, owner of Waterfront RVA. "So I've definitely lost business.
Moore mentions that he also collaborates with non-profit organizations and summer camps, and states that their activity session was ended early due to the road closure blocking access to Browns Island Way.
They strongly opposed having them dropped off on Second Street to walk down the hill and then back up, and if you have 15 or 20 kids, that's a half hour of walking each way," Moore said. "If you have a two-hour program, normally they're dropped off here and we have two hours of instruction and getting them on the water. That two-hour program ends up becoming a one-hour session.
Moore also gives customers the choice to rent water vehicles to use at another body of water outside the park, but this option also became challenging. He mentioned that clients were instructed to park at the top of Browns Island Way, walk down to obtain a paddleboard or kayak, and then carry it back up the hill.
Riverside Outfitters is also experiencing the challenges of closure. Owner Matt Perry says to 12 On Your Side that he can't utilize the boat ramp for trips or emergency evacuations without figuring out who from the Amphitheater team to get permission from.
12 On Your Side consulted with city officials regarding these issues. They mentioned that Live Nation, the owner of the Allianz Amphitheater, has authorization to block the 400 to 600 block of Tredegar Street between Brown’s Island Way and South 7th Street, as well as Brown’s Island Way from South 2nd Street to Tredegar.
The city also rented the Belle Isle parking lot from them during June and July, but did not provide a permit in August.
"We recognize that this causes some frustration within the community, which is why we make the lot available as soon as possible following the events," said Matt Rogers, Vice President of Operations at Live Nation Regional.
Mayor Danny Avula is also addressing the worries of business owners in a statement:
The extended renewal of Brown’s Island and the recent launch of the amphitheater have marked an exhilarating time of transformation and development, and just like any shift, can present difficulties. Although I may not be aware of every detail regarding each issue, I am strongly dedicated to maintaining the security of our citizens and guests, as well as promoting the prosperity of local enterprises, which are essential for the energy of our city. Traffic restrictions near the amphitheater might be inconvenient, but they are designed to protect the well-being of residents and attendees. I truly appreciate when these issues are brought to my attention.
Moore says to 12 On Your Side that he doesn't want Live Nation to stop operating or move elsewhere; nevertheless, he hopes the streets and parking areas will stay accessible.
"I want to witness a fully redesigned approach to this next spring when it reopens," said Moore. amphitheater