Santa Clara Council Member Kathy Watanabe is breaking from the City line to urge Taylor Swift fans to show up for their favorite artist.
Last week, police issued details about what would and would not be allowed for concertgoers. While the issue of friendship bracelets was quickly resolved, other issues such as tailgating or “Taygating” as Swift fans call it, were not.
Oftentimes, unticketed Taylor Swift fans will gather outside of a stadium to singalong with the concert. But, the Santa Clara Police Department (SCPD), working along side the Levi’s Stadium Management Company (ManCo), says it’s a public safety risk.
But District 1 Council Member Watanabe has done a full-court media press to try and pressure a change.
“We’re talking about public streets – so you cannot control people not being able to come and stand on a public street,” Watanabe told NBC Bay Area earlier this week. “So, they’re welcome to come.”
Watanabe, posted on her Facebook page on July 25, that she stands by the comments.
“My position on this issue hasn’t changed. Why are there two standards regarding tailgating with football fans v. young ladies just wanting to enjoy the music of their favorite artist?” wrote Watanabe.
As expected, Santa Clara Mayor Lisa Gillmor jumped in and made it “Our Song.” She supported Watanabe on Twitter. On July 25, Gillmor tweeted out her thanks to Watanabe for speaking up and re-tweeted the comments Watanabe made to NBC.
However, the comments made by Gillmor and Watanabe seem to contradict the message the City is sending.
On July 26, the City reiterated its stance that streets will remain closed to the public. Tasman Drive between Great America Parkway and Lick Mill Boulevard will be closed from Friday morning to Sunday morning. During that time, only authorized personnel and vehicles will be allowed on the roadway.
“There will be no designated areas for non-ticket holding fans and any obstruction of roadways or sidewalks, such as chairs, tents and tables, will not be allowed,” said a City spokesperson. “We urge non-ticketed fans to not travel to Levi’s Stadium on either of the concert nights. By doing so, we can ensure the steady flow of vehicle and pedestrian traffic surrounding the concert venue as well as allowing for clear access for emergency vehicles.”
