MICHIGAN (CelebrityAccess) – The Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority (CAA) has approved a 25-year contract with Live Nation for promotion and booking services at the Acrisure Amphitheater. Richard MacKeigan, General Manager of Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place, confirmed this decision to WZZM 13.
The resolution followed a narrow 8-7 vote from the Kent County Board of Commissioners, which allowed the CAA to make the final decision. Some commissioners opposed the agreement, suggesting there should have been an open bidding process. Commissioner Ivan Diaz highlighted concerns about Live Nation’s current legal issues, referencing an ongoing lawsuit from the U.S. Department of Justice over its alleged monopolistic practices.
The CAA has previously worked with Live Nation for Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place, and this new deal will extend their partnership to the Acrisure Amphitheater. Live Nation will also provide consulting on the venue’s design and construction. As part of the agreement, Live Nation will contribute $20 million towards the amphitheater’s construction and operations, with funds being disbursed in two $10 million installments. The CAA retains the option to terminate the contract based on performance.
The agreement is pending final contractual approval between the CAA and Live Nation, as required for contracts extending beyond five years.
