DEL MAR, Calif. (KGTV) - The North County could be getting a new concert venue that could bring nearly 100 acts to the region each year.
The Del Mar Fairgrounds is pushing to build a $19 million facility at Surfside Race Place, its struggling off-track betting facility.
The venue would add a larger concert option for coastal North County, limited to smaller venues like the famous Belly Up, and seasonal concerts like KAABOO and those involved with the fair and races.
"Not only could you probably get bigger talent to come into town, but there's a need for it, amongst the residents in North County," said Luke Holler, who lives in Encinitas and goes to concerts at the Belly Up or in North Park and downtown.
PHOTOS: What a Del Mar concert venue could look like
Fairgrounds spokeswoman Shawn Feist said the management is looking for financing for the project, which would be paid for from revenue from the fair, races, and other events on the fairgrounds.
The Del Mar City Council will discuss the proposal Monday, including any concerns on noise, traffic and security.
The Fairgrounds' board of directors could take a step forward on the project at its meeting on May 23, but Feist said it's unclear whether financing would be up for approval by then. The state Department of Agriculture would need to approve the plan.
Surfside Race Place would still offer off-track betting even if the concert venue is built.
