Polk commissioners address concerns

Green River Games organizers say they are well on their way to hold the event in Saluda on Sept. 7 and 8 and addressed concerns with Polk County commissioners during a meeting March 18.

John Grace, Green River Games organizer, said he is well underway acquiring necessary permits and has secured the event headquarters to be located at the Saluda Party and Event Center. He has also secured parking at the General Store and Wilderness Cove Tubing. Grace said a permit has been secured for use of the game lands and he’s been in contact with law enforcement and gone over crowd control.

The website for the event was scheduled to launch tomorrow, April 3.

Commissioner Ted Owens asked Grace about the status of the games and said commissioners would like to know background. He also asked if Grace could give the county any assurances on safety.

Grace said on the course there will be a series of volunteers and organizers with a radio communication system they’ve already tested for access points. Grace also said he’s working with Blue Ridge rescue, who he’s worked with before. Owens asked about Saluda and county rescue departments as well as Polk EMS. Grace said he’s hasn’t contacted them yet but will.

Regarding any road closures, Grace said the games will include one 5k run for about an hour, but it has been recommended to have a lead and follow-up car with a deputy rather than closing the road. That race will start that Saturday at 9 a.m. he said.