Haunted attraction gains approval for thrilling new season

In a recent government meeting, officials approved a temporary use permit for the \"Deranged Haunted Attraction,\" set to operate at 35560 Goddard Road from September 13 to November 2, 2024, with an additional weekend in May 2025 coinciding with Washtenaw County's Halfway to Halloween Expo. This marks the seventh year of the attraction, which features a walking trail and temporary structures designed to enhance the Halloween experience.

The petitioner highlighted the success of the Halfway to Halloween Expo, which has attracted visitors from surrounding states, presenting an opportunity to showcase the haunted attraction to a larger audience. The event will include food trucks, with safety measures to be confirmed during a pre-opening walkthrough by city officials.

Concerns regarding noise levels were addressed, with the petitioner noting that there have been no complaints in previous years, despite the challenges of managing sound within property lines. The police chief's report indicated no anticipated negative impact on traffic or parking, although the application includes a request to utilize the City Hall parking lot for overflow, a precautionary measure to prevent congestion on Goddard Road.

The board members expressed satisfaction with the thoroughness of the application and the operational plans, leading to a unanimous vote in favor of the permit. The approval reflects the community's support for local events that contribute to seasonal festivities and tourism.