MERRIWEATHER SAVED?
After nearly two years of public pressure, the current owners of
Merriweather Post Pavilion announced tonight their commitment to
preserving the venue as an outdoor amphitheater.
The announcement by General Growth Properties (formerly the Rouse
Company) is a reversal from their previous position that Merriweather
should only operate as an enclosed theater.
While nothing is yet set in stone, Save Merriweather applauds their
decision. To be sure, there are still many uncertainties regarding
the future of the pavilion. It is currently not known whether General
Growth will continue to pursue offers from potential buyers.
Moreover, the parking situation and necessary renovations have not
been fully resolved. However, this announcement is certainly cause
for celebration for all those who have helped in the effort to save
Merriweather.
General Growth is currently working on a master plan for Columbia's
downtown, which will likely include solutions to the parking issue.
In addition, the master plan will specify what form the development
of Merriweather's lots will take. Save Merriweather has consistently
stated that development on the parking lots is not a bad thing for
the pavilion. Indeed, if properly planned, such development could
enhance the overall Merriweather experience, creating an improvedsetting for concertgoers before and after shows.
Although the effort to preserve Merriweather is not completely
finished, we'd like to thank everyone who has taken the time to
attend meetings, write letters, sign our petition or contribute to
the cause in other ways. This experience has shown us the
passion that people from all over the region feel for Merriweather
and the effectiveness of a collective voice.
Stay tuned as more details surface about Merriweather's future and
the development of downtown Columbia. Again, thanks for your
support!
