"Rock The Country" Expected to Impact Local Economy

Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer

It’s the best of both worlds, a private-public partnership which will bring more than 25,000 visitors to Anderson for a concert without costing the taxpayers a cent.

“Rock The Country,” set for Friday and Saturday at the Anderson Sports and Entertainment Complex, is projected to have an economic impact on the area of between $19 million and $30 million during the event.

The promoter, 46 Entertainment, is picking up the tab for use of the facility, extra law enforcement (paying for off-duty Anderson County Sheriff’s Office Deputies and City of Anderson Police Officers to help provide safety and keep order) and other costs associated with the festival.

“Anderson County is not paying for any of this,” said Anderson County Administrator Rusty Burns, adding that the county has been working with promoters and other local groups to make the two-day event successful for seven months.

“A dollar spent in Anderson County will change hands four times before it leaves here,” said Burns. “It’s going to be a great event, and showcase Anderson County to people from all over.”

The Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce has been highlighting local businesses in advance of the event, and many local restaurants are offering tailgate package specials.

Tickets have been sold to concert goers as far away as Germany for the last stop on the Rock The Country tour. A few tickets are still available here.

Organizers also said free water stations and medical support tents will be onsite to help deal with the summer temperatures. Current forecasts are calling for temperatures in the 80s with a moderate chance of rain. Campers were already being set up on Wednesday on the grounds.

Road closures and rerouting will also be in effect all around the concert areas, with the following roads impacted by the event: Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard; Civic Center Boulevard; Camson Road; Woodcrest Drive. Cambridge Road; and Hembree Road. See map below for details.