Editorial: New tailgate idea no big deal, but restrictions grow old

Before folks get up in arms about Auburn’s new tailgating opportunity on the Campus Green, let’s offer a few thoughts.

Though the rate for tailgating in this area (anywhere from $222 to $1,250 per game), which is set up, controlled and directed by the outfit Tailgate Guys, may seem astronomical to some — and a bit outrageous to even think the Saturday fun that comes with tailgating should even come with a price tag — nobody is forcing Auburn football fans to shell out their money for a spot.

If fans have a desire to let people set up their own tailgates with tents, chairs, tables, etc., and have the financial means to make it happen, then Auburn and Tailgate Guys are providing a new, fan-friendly service for them.

When Auburn added luxury suites to Jordan-Hare Stadium in the 1980s, the school’s ticket office didn’t force fans into buying them. What’s the difference?

If fans want to tailgate at their usual place, there’s little chance the new tailgate area will displace them. In fact, one school official said “less than 10” tailgate spots would be affected.

The Campus Green tailgate area does enhance Auburn’s opportunity to make an extra buck, but such areas have become commonplace at other SEC schools.

Granted, tailgating at Auburn, and many SEC campuses, has grown more difficult to do over the years.

Schools continue to find new ways to discourage parking in particular places and continue to create less space near the respective stadiums to enjoy a festive afternoon before heading to the game.

At Auburn, bollards were erected along streets on campus, denying access by vehicles to lawns.

If fans left their tailgate spots as clean as they found them, such measures may not have been necessary.

The new tailgate area can be a good thing at Auburn and should currently be looked at as an enhancement to the school’s game day fan opportunities.

However, we hope that continued measures, such as further restricted parking or expanded tailgate programs do not encroach upon the fans’ desire to tailgate for themselves and choose where they can do so.

More regulations diminish the festive atmosphere and could keep some fans home where they can watch the games on television.

We encourage fans to act responsibly enough where universities do not find more regulations necessary.