Selectmen Approve Xfinity Center Entertainment License

MANSFIELD, MA – After weeks of work, the Xfinity Center has the OK from the town to start concert season.

Wednesday night, the selectmen approved the entertainment and parking license for the 19,900-seat concert venue. The approval came at the recommendation of the Xfinity Center License subcommittee.

Changes for 2016 mainly concern security. Live Nation is moving their security operation in-house according to Selectman Olivier Kozlowski. Police officials have met with the venue on the issue and are ready to go.

Police will also have an elevated platform on the lawn to address security issues in the general admission area at the top of the concert area.

The board's main concern Wednesday was the consumption of alcohol in the parking lot before events. Selectman Doug Annino said the town's desire to see that issue addressed was evident in the subcommittee meetings.

Selectman Jess Aptowitz said General Manager Jeff Mann has been open minded and made fantastic choices after some events where there were issues.

Also discussed was a new traffic plan designed to get vehicles out faster. The police department has signed off on it and it is waiting for approval from the state Department of Transportation.

Concert season at the Xinifty Center kicks off with Brantley Gilbert on June 2.