The excessive noise lawsuit brought by a group of residents who live near Gallagher Square in downtown’s East Village took an unproductive step this week. The San Diego Padres and the residents’ group failed to reach a resolution during mediation.
As a result, both parties now await a Superior Court Judge’s ruling expected in October.
Neither side is commenting specifically on the case.
In a press release, the group known as Residents Concerned About Noise From Gallagher Square said:
“On July 9, the leadership team and our attorneys participated in a full-day, confidential mediation with representatives of the Padres, their attorneys and the city’s attorney. This was conducted by a neutral mediator at a professional mediation center. Although everyone participated in good faith, we were unable to reach a resolution.”
The nearly-three-year-old suit stems from concerts held at Gallagher Square, which is adjacent to Petco Park. The location was formerly known as the Park at the Park, before a $20-million renovation by the Padres (which manages the park and splits event profits with the city) turned the green space into a venue more suitable for concerts for up to 10,000 people.
The lawsuit is not directed at concerts by major artists held inside Petco Park. The residents group has said acts like Paul McCartney, Billy Joel and Elton John that play inside Petco are noise buffered. Residents have pointed out that when other rock and EDM acts play Gallagher Square the stage is set up so speakers point directly into residential neighborhoods.
Earlier this year, the San Diego City Council approved an amendment to the city’s Noise Ordinance allowing the city manager, or a designee, to grant exceptions to the city’s standard noise limits.
“This action was taken despite opposition from residents and neighborhood advocacy groups throughout the city,” according to the residents’ press release. “At this time, we do not know whether or how this change might affect Gallagher Square events.” SDSun
