Kyrillos: PNC Bank Arts Center's Security & Programming Must Be Strengthened

Greater Enforcement, Diversity Of Programming Called For

Senator Joseph Kyrillos, a member of the Senate Legislative Oversight Committee issued the following comments regarding a legislative hearing today regarding security, and behavioral problems at the PNC Bank Arts Center:

"Last year's concert season saw the explosive growth of behavioral problems at the PNC Bank Arts Center, many of them related to alcohol consumption. Sadly, during last year's season two young people died due to alcohol overdoses.

"Most of the problems related to underage alcohol consumption can be directly traced to unsupervised tailgating. The managers of the Arts center working in concert with the State Police and parents must increase the supervision and control of activities in the parking area, especially as it relates to tailgating.

"The PNC Bank Arts Center is a world class facility with the capacity and the potential to draw the finest acts from around the world. New Jersey's demographics demand that the PNC Bank Arts Center support a range of shows that would appeal to larger segments of the population.

"Sadly, Live Nation, the managers of the venue are not drawing a diversity of programming. The lineup of acts available at the Arts Center must be tailored to entertain as diverse a market as possible.

"Live Nation must be held accountable for the safety and security of the audience and the facility as well as program offerings. The Turnpike Authority must review the agreement with Live Nation for possible breaches of contract."