Forks Amphitheater Back on the Table

The Forks Township Board of Supervisors will once again revisit a proposal to construct an amphitheater on a lot adjacent to the township municipal building.

Last week, Supervisors C. David Howell, David Billings and Lilly Gioia approved extending the acceptance period for the proposed project for an additional month. The deadline for submissions was expected to end on July 21, according to Billings.

Not present at the meeting were Supervisors Erik Chuss and Robert Egolf, who in the past have openly expressed disapproval of amphitheater plans.

“I think we want an extension of the acceptance period for one month before we finally decide whether or not this township is going to officially accept or reject an amphitheater,” Howell said.

Last month, supervisors tabled the matter in spite of work estimates coming in under budget.

Plans for the project have already been drafted by architectural firm Kimmel-Bogrette, which has managed to get work proposals under $300,000. Initial work proposals came back at $560,000 and above.

According to Billings, the extension would enable supervisors to revisit the proposal and make a final decision on whether or not an amphitheater is right for the township.

A total of $1.8 million from developer donations already has been allotted for township recreation projects.

Egolf has said the proposed design would not allow for adequate structure or proper acoustics, while Chuss has called the design the “lesser of two evils,” referring to plans that are also on tap for the possible construction of a second amphitheater at the new 52-acre township park at Newlins and Richmond roads.

During last week's meeting, Dayton Drive resident Ken Nagee questioned the number of amphitheaters proposed for the municipality.  

“I really think you need some strong strategy and planning for what you want to do,” he said. “The design is an unimaginative and unimpressive thing. As a taxpayer, I want more for my money.”

The matter will be discussed at the next board meeting, set for 7:30pm Aug. 4.