WARREN — The Warren City Council convened Thursday to address ongoing renovations at the Warren Community Amphitheater, a project that a council member said sparked discussions about scheduling, funding, and fairness in venue access.

The $1.22 million project, which includes a new roof, upgraded lighting, improved wheelchair accessibility and new vendor spaces, is expected to be completed by early July.

The nearly 30-year-old amphitheater, located near Perkins Park, has undergone upgrades in recent years, including perimeter fencing and bathroom renovations in 2022 and 2023.

However, the current phase of construction raised questions from one council member about how events will be managed during the renovation.

Councilman Todd Johnson, I-1st Ward, expressed concerns about conflicting information regarding bookings.

“There was some information about the amphitheater not taking any bookings through the summer, and then there was conflicting information from River Rock that they are open,” Johnson said. “So, are we taking any bookings, or are we not?”

Warren Safety Service Director Eddie Colbert, clarified that while the “River Rock at the Amp” concert series–already booked a year in advance–will proceed as scheduled on weekends. No new bookings are being accepted.

“We don’t want to get someone’s hopes up and then have to cancel because construction isn’t complete,” Colbert said.

He said it would be “unfair” to allow new bookings when construction delays could force cancellations.

“If the roof isn’t there, the roof isn’t there,” he said. “We don’t want people spending money and time planning events only to find out they can’t use the venue.”

The discussion also touched on the African American Festival, traditionally held during the first weekend of June.

Colbert confirmed that organizers had been notified of the potential for disruption.

“I reached out to them two weeks ago to let them know there’s a chance the amphitheater may not be available,” he said.

Councilman Ron White, D-7th Ward, asked if organizers had been adequately informed.

Colbert confirmed that he had spoken with festival representatives.

Warren Mayor Doug Franklin and other council members acknowledged the challenges posed by the construction.

“It’s going to be a little ugly for a minute, but we are moving forward with the council’s appropriations,” Colbert said, referencing the American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds supporting the project.

The amphitheater, which seats nearly 3,000 people, is a key venue for community events. While some events, like the Warren Rotary Club’s Rubber Duck concert on April 26, will relocate to other city venues, officials are optimistic the renovations will enhance the space for future use.

As construction progresses, city officials urge residents to be patient and mindful of the temporary inconveniences.

“We’re doing this for the long-term benefit of the community,” Colbert said. “It’s going to be worth it in the end.”

The next update on the project is expected after a meeting with the project manager March 5.