San Clemente weighs park amphitheater expansion for up to 600 attendees

San Clemente officials are considering enlarging the amphitheater at Forster Ranch Community Park to accommodate up to 600 attendees, according to Voice of OC. No final decision has been made, and council members have asked staff to study upgrades and environmental and financial impacts.

The proposal could expand opportunities for local arts performances while affecting neighborhood green space and shared use of park facilities. Staff favor Forster Ranch because upgrading its existing performance space would cost less than building a new facility, Voice of OC reported.

Staff narrowed their review to two parks: Forster Ranch Community Park and Steed Park. They presented findings in August, and further council discussion is expected Nov. 10, according to Voice of OC.

Forster Ranch has a small stage and a bowl-shaped seating area. The stage hosts citywide events, including Movies in the Park, though some community members say it is underused. Adding seating could affect surrounding landscaping and green space.

The alternative site at Steed Park, on Avenida La Plata, is undeveloped. It has a natural slope and bowl shape and is used for equipment storage and occasional recreation, Voice of OC reported.

The Forster Ranch stage sits next to Capistrano Unified School District property. A partnership could include a security fence and access for school activities. The city and district already share an agreement covering soccer field use and maintenance at the park.

City Manager Andy Hall said in an email to Voice of OC that staff had met with some neighbors for input and suggestions and were still assessing how best to use the existing amphitheater. Councilmember Mark Enemier expressed interest in summer concerts, plays and school performances, according to the publication.

The next council discussion is expected to revisit how to improve the venue, with seating, neighborhood input and environmental and financial effects still under review.