ms consultants, inc. was hired as a subconsultant to MKSK for architectural and engineering design services for the proposed Riverfront Park and Amphitheater Master Plan. The project site is adjacent to the Covelli Centre in downtown Youngstown, Ohio.

This project is part of the city’s goal of improving green space and riverfront sites within the downtown area.

The master plan includes sustainable infrastructure options and remediation efforts of the Wean slab. The Wean United Building, once a downtown eyesore, was demolished in 2014. The nearly 10.5 acre site was turned over to the city. This site will now be home to the Riverfront Park and Amphitheater including a connecting promenade to the nearby Covelli Centre for a complete urban entertainment experience.

Upon completion of the master plan, the project quickly moved into the design phase. This brought great excitement to all those involved throughout the Mahoning Valley region. Once final design began to take shape, the main sponsorship was announced and the venue was officially, and proudly named The Youngstown Foundation Amphitheater.

The design includes the proposed amphitheater with designated seating and lawn space for 4,500 people. The amphitheater also includes a space for winter time activities so the space can be used year round.

The amphitheater facility includes:

• A large concession and bathroom facility, dressed with signage for the sponsorships associated with the facility.
• A ticket building equipped with technology for ticket sales and a secure checkpoint.
• A large stage structure equipped with integral rigging points, lighting and technology attached to the back of house structures that contain offices, dressing rooms, bathrooms, and a loading area.

A paved seating area for 1,000 sits in front of the stage flanked by a VIP area on one side and landscape buffering on the other. A large beer garden sets the perimeter for the paved seating area with integral landscaping for the best views of Youngstown.