Next week, Blaine County Commissioners will review an application for an eclipse-watching camp in the Wood River Valley that could accommodate up to 3,000 solar spectators.
The organizer has christened what could spring up on a 13-acre vacant lot in Hailey “EclipCity.” The temporary campground would have 832 spaces measuring 20 by 20 feet that would be available for an estimated $350 a spot.
Camp organizer Daniel Enriquez tells the Idaho Mountain Express that with so many people expected to flood into the Wood River Valley for the August 21st event, people are going to need safe spaces to stay so they won’t be forced to camp in the surrounding canyons.
Some residents who live close to the possible site of “EclipCity” are raising concerns about noise, environmental impacts and light pollution.
Blaine County officials say a temporary fence would surround the 24-hour campground and both security and medical personnel would be on site. They say Enriquez has submitted all the correct paperwork and, as of late last week, gotten the approval of Wood River Fire and Rescue.
For more local news, follow the KBSX newsroom on Twitter @KBSX915
Copyright 2017 Boise State Public Radio
