Civic leagues briefed on Af'ram

NORFOLK, Va. - Members of  the Downtown Norfolk Civic League and Freemason Street Area Association expressed concerns about the cultural festival that's held at Town Point Park every year.

At the joint meeting at Waterside, city leaders assured residents there will be a command center made up of police, fire and festival representatives to provide security.

John Rhamstine, Director of Cultural Facilities for Norfolk, said the command center will give instructions for stop/slow admissions if the park gets too full.

Lt. Joe Baron with the Norfolk Police Department said bike and foot patrol teams will be in the park throughout the festival weekend.

Tracy Derring from Norfolk's Department of Cultural Affairs said representatives from the health department will also be on site with decibel meters to track the noise level and respond to any complaints. She also said Hampton Roads Transit is working with the city to make the ferry more effective for festival goers.

Afr'am Fest will be held Labor Day weekend,  September 4, 5 and 6. Admission is $10. Featured acts include Bell Biv Devoe, Keith Sweat and Chuck Brown.  Af'ram Fest director Mark Madison says the entertainment is geared towards the 30 and older crowd and Sunday's lineup will be mostly gospel music.