One of the problems is the overall pricing. I agree with having some tiered pricing as we know that some areas are more valuable than others due to size and location, and what has been in the past just the overall condition of the spots when it rains.
However, when the paid model for all areas went into effect around 2008, we still had waiting lists of 50+. Because pricing was reasonable. I think we all knew that some pricing had to change. But did all of it need to change. You had the 30x30 spots near the stadium paying the same as the old 20x20 spots in a ditch along Bertrand (across from Agave/CVS). Last we checked when we gave up our spot about 4 years ago was that it was costing us over $1,500 for a spot with the TG fee, RCAF donation, TG pass fee, and the tickets just to have the spot.
What previous administration and fundraisers did not understand was by driving up these costs as thinking this was the only way to make money, has actually driven the crowds away to now there are many available spots, meaning lack of money coming in, and also a less fun and exciting atmosphere with the empty tailgating areas.
While those prime spots need that tiered fees and they are prime time real estate for tailgating, some of those areas can be set back to $250 a season or something. Bringing them lower (not free) makes it back to affordable and starts getting those people back. While they need to let people out the back of their vehicles to some extent, I don’t think the free grass area make complete sense as I remember when those areas were free, there were many more issues security-wise that needed more controls. So at least create a way that makes it affordable.
Maybe do a $50 a game to get a 20x20 spot. So you got a spot but can just show up for the game.
Admin/fundraisers need to stop thinking of these areas as lost revenue when dropping the prices. Because they are getting $0 now. Lower them to something that people can do. Because 50x$50 is $2,500 more than you made by not selling any.
However, when the paid model for all areas went into effect around 2008, we still had waiting lists of 50+. Because pricing was reasonable. I think we all knew that some pricing had to change. But did all of it need to change. You had the 30x30 spots near the stadium paying the same as the old 20x20 spots in a ditch along Bertrand (across from Agave/CVS). Last we checked when we gave up our spot about 4 years ago was that it was costing us over $1,500 for a spot with the TG fee, RCAF donation, TG pass fee, and the tickets just to have the spot.
What previous administration and fundraisers did not understand was by driving up these costs as thinking this was the only way to make money, has actually driven the crowds away to now there are many available spots, meaning lack of money coming in, and also a less fun and exciting atmosphere with the empty tailgating areas.
While those prime spots need that tiered fees and they are prime time real estate for tailgating, some of those areas can be set back to $250 a season or something. Bringing them lower (not free) makes it back to affordable and starts getting those people back. While they need to let people out the back of their vehicles to some extent, I don’t think the free grass area make complete sense as I remember when those areas were free, there were many more issues security-wise that needed more controls. So at least create a way that makes it affordable.
Maybe do a $50 a game to get a 20x20 spot. So you got a spot but can just show up for the game.
Admin/fundraisers need to stop thinking of these areas as lost revenue when dropping the prices. Because they are getting $0 now. Lower them to something that people can do. Because 50x$50 is $2,500 more than you made by not selling any.
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