The Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority (CAA) has approved a 25-year contract with Live Nation for promoting and booking services at the Acrisure Amphitheater set to open in 2026 on Market Avenue near US 131.
The contract went forward after approval from the Kent County Board of Commissioners which allowed the CAA to make final approval, although several commissioners opposed the agreement, citing the lack of an open bidding process.
Commissioner Ivan Diaz also raised concerns about an on-going anti-trust lawsuit from the U.S. Department of Justice, likely to go on for years.
Chairman Stan Stek responded that Live Nation has been the long-time promotion partner for the Van Andel Arena and Devos Place.
“I hear the concerns. I would share those concerns but for the fact we have lots of years of experience with this provider, and good experience, and so it’s not like were going out and looking for somebody out of the blue. We know them and are satisfied with them.”
He added there was a clause that would nullify the deal if Live Nation is unable to fulfill its obligations due to the litigation.
Live Nation will also contribute $20 million towards the amphitheater’s construction and operation and consult on the venue’s design.
