Metro Park tent beyond repair, city officials say

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The main stage at Metropolitan Park downtown will no longer be used for concerts or events, according to the city of Jacksonville.

The stage has been a popular concert venue for years.

But now city officials say it's time to say goodbye to the main stage at Metro Park.

News4Jax spoke to the inspector who said the city did some safety research, and the findings revealed that the tent is in no condition for repairs or use.

“It’s no longer in the structural condition that we feel is safe for citizens,” said Marsha Oliver, director of public affairs. “The latest inspection shows it’s met its use. It has served the (Metropolitan) Park visitors for a number of years."

The city conducted some studies to determine the future of the stage.

“We discovered there were issues in terms of wanting to inspect and evaluate the integrity. We've had it restricted, and it's barricaded to prevent people from coming in that area,” said Oliver.

For now, the stage been closed off because of some structural problems that have made it inoperable.

“We will continue to evaluate and monitor the canopy coming down,” Oliver said.

But now, the city has to figure out a replacement.

Officials say they will work with event promoters and organizers that utilize the park and make sure it's still a destination for concerts and other various family fun events.


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