The Big Convention News
It is official, Barack Obama will accept the Democratic Party's nomination not at the Pepsi Center (basketball and hockey arena), but at Invesco Field at Mile High Stadium! This outdoor venue is the home of the Denver Bronco's football team, and normally seats over 76,000 people.
As I am not a delegate or a Democratic Party official, I had almost lost all hope of actually attending Obama's acceptance speech, but now there is a chance.
First the math. The Pepsi Center normally less than 20,000 people, so there would seem to be 56,000 new seats availible. On the other hand, I had read that Denver is expecting over 50,000 visitors for the convention. I imagine that the 30,000 visitors who were not expected to attend Obama's accpetance speech will have a pretty good chance of getting into the new venue. These people include the family, friends, and staff of press, the party, and other local, national, and even international officials. After that, I think Obama campaign donors and volunteers will get a shot at tickets before tickets are handed out on the street. If there is anthing left over, I will try to be the first to let you know.
Next, let's talk venue. The Pepsi center is a great convention site as it is an easy walk from Denver's central business district. Mile High, on the otherhand, might as well be known as Mile West, it's approximate distance from downtown. Furthermore, it is situated in the middle of acres of parking, next to and interstate hightway. This has always been a recipe for endless traffic jams at Broncos games.
Fortunately, there are three ways for visitors to get to Invesco that don't involve rental cars, traffic jams, and parking fees.
1. RTD Light Rail The same line that passes the Pepsi Center, also goes to Mile High. I am sure they will put into place the same additonal service they normally do for football games.
2. RTD Bus service. It also seems likely that the same or similar schedule that they use for football games will also be used for this event. Stay tuned to RTD's web site for updates on their plan.
3. The Platte Valley walking/cycling trail. Walk (or bike) down the scenic Platte River from downtown. If the weather is nice, and you don't mind walking for 15-20 minutes, this just might be the fastest and least expensive way to get to Mile High from downtown.
This will be a once in a lifetime event, so if you are staying downtown and are lucky enough to attend, my advice is to avoid the crowds and traffic, soak up the local atmosphere, and savor the walk with your fellow Obama supporters.
With any luck, I will see you there!