Tesla Faces Local Backlash Over Plan for Massive Gigafactory Party
- Travis County officials granted Tesla party permit unanimously
- Auto maker has faced protests against its environmental impact
The Tesla Gigafactory under construction in Austin, Texas, on Feb. 1.
Photographer: Thomas Ryan Allison/BloombergThis article is for subscribers only.
Tesla Inc. is facing opposition from community and environmental groups over its plan to hold a party for 15,000 people to celebrate the opening of its gigafactory in Austin.
The company intends to offer tours of the 8 million-square-foot facility, food and two stages with live music at the invite-only event on April 7, according to plans submitted to Travis County, which encompasses Austin. Officials on Tuesday granted approval even after hearing testimony from concerned neighbors.