UPDATE: Meeting is in recess until 3pm
Today, November 15, the City of Miami held a commission meeting to hear statements on why Ultra Music Festival – a festival that claims Miami as its home – should or should not be approved for its move to Virginia Key Beach.
Several members of the community came out to voice what the positive and negative impacts of Ultra’s move would have on the island. Residents of the Village of Key Biscayne along with their Mayor-Elect Mike Davey voiced several concerns including environmental harm, disruptions to schools nearby, and no planning for efficient traffic/transportation. On the other side of the argument, speakers stated Ultra can provide the resources to improve the environment, bring in major revenue to the economy and connect people from all walks of life.
Included amongst the speakers was Rapture Music Festival who has previously held its event on Virginia Key. A representative from them stated “We [Rapture] have always been an environmentally friendly event. Ultra stole the concept from the Rapture brand to receive approval. If Ultra moves to Virginia Key, it would put us out of business.”
After being ejected from Bayfront Park, Ultra chose to host its 2019 edition at the Miami Marine Stadium and Historic Virginia Key Beach Park. Opposition to the festival returning to its original location came from downtown Miami residents, however the residents of Key Biscayne proved to be just as opposed (if not more) on the new choice of venue.
Watch the video of the meeting below and read specific statements on our Twitter page. Stay tuned for the final vote on Ultra’s move to Virginia Key.
