The Hopkins Township Planning Commission has said they want more information about traffic flow, utilities and security issues, before they OK developer Brian Silvernail's proposal for the Old Plank Family Entertainment Farm in this Grand Rapids suburb.
Silvernail, along with Wayland businessman Kal Schanz have proposed the entertainment complex on 130 acres along 12th Street between 129th and 135 avenues.
The site is across the highway from a casino currently proposed by the Gun Lake Band of Pottawatomi Indians and, if approved, would include a 10,000-seat amphitheater for country and Christian music concerts, tractor pulls, rodeos and car shows.
Silvernail, who chairs the Grand Rapids Real Estate company, said he received a letter from commissioners earlier this month asking for letters of commitment from various agencies that address traffic and utility issues. They told him they are concerned that Silvernail lacks a letter from the County Commission concerning water and sewer usages, as well as letters guaranteeing traffic safety.
Commissioners said they have also received a petition from 60 residents who oppose the project because they believe it may be too noisy and the lighting needed may be too bright. The land is currently zoned for agribusiness and not commercial use.
The next scheduled commission meeting is Jan. 13, but Silvernail can request a special meeting if he wants to. To that end, he plans to see what information he can obtain before the January deadline, he said.
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