Harbor Commissioners OK Outdoor Amphitheater Overlooking South Bay Waterfront

SAN PEDRO, CA — The city of San Pedro is moving forward with a plan to build a 6,200-capacity amphitheater along the waterfront that would rival neighboring Long Beach's proposed outdoor concert venue.

The Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners unanimously approved the plan during its latest meeting on Thursday, June 26, bringing some closure to what was described as a decades-long process.

During public comment, several people shared their approval of the project, emphasizing that it was a great opportunity for San Pedro and its waterfront.

"As a neighbor, I have no concerns, just excitement and anticipation," one person said during public comment. "The cranes built our economy, the amphitheater will build our identity."

The proposed venue would be located within the San Pedro Public Market site, which has been undergoing renovations, and would take just over a year to build. It would also include a 175-foot diameter Ferris wheel.

Some have criticized the projects over concerns about environmental impacts to marine life, along with an increase in noise and transportation in the area.

But city officials have been working on ways to mitigate those issues, including following already established environmental guidelines. The 6,200-capacity amphitheater, which would host about 100 events per year, would challenge neighboring Long Beach's planned outdoor venue that is slated to open in 2026.

Long Beach's venue would seat more than 12,000 people and would be located adjacent to the historic Queen Mary.

That venue would serve as a temporary space until a more permanent venue can be funded and built, according to city officials.