Forks Set to Advertise for Amphitheatre Project Again

A centralized location for musical performances, community day events and awards ceremonies is a little bit closer to reality in Forks Township.

On Thursday, in a split vote, 3-2, supervisors approved advertising for work proposals on the amphitheatre. Casting no votes were supervisors Erik Chuss and Robert Egolf, who had plenty to say about why they opposed the plan.

“I’m very impartial and probably, to use a stronger word, against this design,” said Egolf. “I think we’re going to be a little disappointed or greatly disappointed with this design. I want an amphitheatre. I want it badly. But I don’t think this is the design.” 

But the majority of supervisors opposed any further delay on the project that has been discussed about for a decade.

A proposed design scheme from architectural firm Kimmel Bogrette, Conshohocken, includes a fabric–covered roof surface. The covering would be similar to ones already located at Denver Airport and the Vancouver Convention Center and would be good for 20 years, according to Martin Kimmel, principal for Kimmel Bogrette. But Egolf expressed concern over the soft covering.

“I really don’t’ see what that adds to anything except maybe some aesthetics. I don’t think it’s practical," said Egolf.

Egolf said the proposed plan, which is estimated to cost between $279,000 and $378,000, would also lend to lessened acoustics for musical events. In addition, Egolf said the low level walls proposed in the plan would only serve as an invitation to skateboarders.

“If we go ahead with this we’re going to need 100 percent surveillance. This is just a magnet for problems,” said Egolf.

Chuss said he was concerned about parking and what he said would be rising costs of the proposed plans. Electrical work and restrooms are not included in the proposals.

“We’re already pushing the limits on parking,” said Chuss. “The cost of biggest concern is that the snack bar and restrooms are not included. Start adding in $350,000 to $400,000 when you add those things in.”

Additionally, Chuss said he’s not sure that the proposed location of Sullivan Trail next to the municipal building is the proper location.

“Perhaps another location would be the Newlins and Richmond roads site instead,” said Chuss.

The township is already in the process of planning out 42 acres of property on Newlins and Richmond roads for park land. Part of those proposed plans include an amphitheatre structure.

But not every supervisor was in favor of delaying plans on the project.

“I think we’ve delayed and we’ve talked about it,” said Supervisor Lilly Gioia. “I think Forks is at a stage in its growth where we should move forward.”

“I think Kimmel Bogrette looked at a design that had a number of features without being overbearing, without being a clumsy looking structure,” said Supervisor C. David Howell. “To me this is it.” 

“We’re just spending a lot of money without a plan,” said Chuss.

“I think the only thing we can do now is find out how much it would cost,” said Howell. “This is not the end of the process, this is just the beginning.”

The township has so far spent $70,000 on plans for the proposed project. Funds for the project have been earmarked from the township parks and recreation department. Those funds, according to township manager Richard Schnaedter, have accumulated for a number of years and are earmarked for leisure and recreation only.

The hope is to award contracts within the next 45 days to have work begin within 60 days.