PROGRESS: Awesome Biker Nights revved up for a big move

Brian Hall, the chairman of the event's board of directors, said the Hard Rock, at 111 Third St., will lend its main stage concert venue for the rally, which is typically held on the third weekend of June.

Fifth and Pearl streets north and east of the casino will be devoted to motorcycle and pedestrian traffic for the 2016 rally. All major concerts will be held at Hard Rock's Battery Park venue June 16-18.

In This Moment and Pop Evil will headline the Awesome Biker Nights concert on June 17 while Cheap Trick featuring Edgar Winter will perform June 18.

"The Historic Fourth Street District has been an incredible venue site," Hall said in December. "However, there was a decision by the board, due in part to issues beyond our control, that a location change was necessary."

Last summer, several businesses in the Fourth Street District were upset after barricades were put up around their entrances, blocking access to Soho Kitchen & Bar, Lucianos and others.

The restaurants were denied access to the streets because they declined to pay the $1,500 fee to participate in the beer garden.

Buffalo Alice co-owner Bob Nettleton said they were disappointed with the event's move. C.J. Perera, of The Diving Elk,  said he understood the decision from a business standpoint, but still disliked it.

Businesses near the Hard Rock had been approached about participating in the rally.

"This event will bring thousands of people to our great city," Todd Moyer, general manager of the Hard Rock, said in February.

Last year, an estimated 25,000 people attended the rally that benefits local charities.

Leckband predicted the event will be able to donate more money to charities with the larger venue.

"I think it's going to be the biggest show we've had to date," he said.

This year, Awesome Biker Nights will feature three stages of live music, a poker run and tournament, and a bike show and raffle.