Stow has secured land for construction of a new $6 million amphitheater that’s envisioned as the centerpiece of a a new entertainment area.
City officials announced Nov. 19 they have signed a purchase agreement for the property at Norton and Darrow roads, where the outdoor amphitheater, The AMP, will be constructed. The project would be paid for through cell tower fees, according to city plans.
In August, Stow City Council authorized the city to purchase as much as 4 acres of land for up to $1.375 million.
As part of the negotiated terms, Stow-Hudson Investment Co., which owns the neighboring Stow-Hudson Towne Centre, has agreed to substantially upgrade the site surrounding the amphitheater, including improvements to the overall property and the recruitment of new restaurants and businesses, according to a city news release.
“We are thrilled to reach this important milestone,” Mayor John Pribonic said in the release. “This project has always been about creating new opportunities for community connection, live entertainment, and economic growth. Signing the purchase agreement brings us one step closer to making that vision a reality.”
City officials will now seek competitive bids for the construction of the amphitheater; designs were drafted earlier. Once a construction bid is awarded, the build is expected to begin when weather permits. A community groundbreaking ceremony is planned for early spring.
What will the entertainment area look like?
The AMP will serve as the heart of what the city wants to establish as an entertainment district. The plan calls for a 3,713-square-foot amphitheater with a green room, storage and mechanical room as well as 2,744-square-foot stage. In addition, a restroom and concession building would be placed at the rear of the lot.
The amphitheater would host a variety of events throughout the year, including ticketed events; markets, or open air festivals, such as Christkindl markets and art walks; Stow Parks and Recreation programs such as Concerts on the Green and Yoga in the Morning; outdoor movie nights; and streaming live sporting events. The facility also would be available for other events through the library, school district or other public entity.
Reporter April Helms can be reached at [email protected]
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‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.beaconjournal.com ’
