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Planning board approves making FactoryTown permanent after debate over noise and crowding
Summary
The board voted to remove the pilot designation for FactoryTown, allowing a permanent site plan and infrastructure investments; operators promised acoustic engineering, police protocols and an indoor venue, while some members and residents urged stronger noise mitigation and monitoring.
The Planning and Zoning Board voted Oct. 15 to recommend an ordinance that removes the pilot status for FactoryTown and allows a permanent site plan within the original boundaries established by the pilot program.
City attorneys and staff described the change as a clean‑up and a conversion of a five‑year pilot into a permanent zoning authorization that preserves the original FactoryTown footprint. Supporters from the site’s operator and partners — including Abra Jane and acoustical consultant James Allgate — described plans for permanent stages, water/sewer infrastructure, permanent restroom blocks, grease traps for food and beverage operations and a 15,000‑square‑foot indoor venue.
Several board members and at least one resident urged caution, citing recurring off‑site noise and impacts on neighboring municipalities. Board member concerns focused on decibel levels, the frequency of events, egress and fire inspection protocols. FactoryTown representatives said they have on‑site police and work with neighboring departments; they described a hotline response that yields a police visit and decibel readings within 15 minutes. Sound engineers explained that permanent stages and purchased acoustic equipment would allow digital steering and frequency control to reduce off‑site noise.
Site operators said the permanent site plan is necessary to justify capital investments (including a commitment from Live Nation) that would reduce off‑site impacts. Operators said they have contracted an acoustic consultant, will use directional speaker technology and will have the consultant on site for an upcoming multi‑night event.
After extended public exchange and technical explanations, the board voted to approve the ordinance amendment. Staff and operators agreed to follow up with the police and neighborhood representatives on complaint response procedures and with additional engineering details as the site plan advances to building‑department review.
