San Clemente leaders are exploring the expansion of the existing small community amphitheater at Forster Ranch Community Park, with the potential to accommodate up to 600 attendees. This initiative aims to foster local arts and culture and could forge a mutually beneficial partnership with the Capistrano Unified School District. City Council members signaled a preference for expanding the Forster Ranch site over developing a new amphitheater at Steed Park, citing cost-effectiveness and the park’s existing features. The topic, discussed during an August city council meeting where staff presented their findings, is slated for further discussion by council members on November 10, according to City Clerk Laura Campagnolo.
The proposal to expand the Forster Ranch facility comes after city officials spent several years researching various locations for a community amphitheater suitable for performances like community productions and live music. Staff members identified Forster Ranch as the more favorable location because it already possesses a stage and a natural bowl shape. These existing assets, staff indicated, could make it cheaper to upgrade the facility rather than initiating construction from an undeveloped site. Potential improvements include adding seating, though this could necessitate altering some nearby green space, including grass, trees, and shrubbery located by the parking lot.
An expansion at Forster Ranch Community Park also opens the door to collaboration with the adjacent Capistrano Unified School District. Benefits of such a partnership could include the installation of a security fence and school access to the area for various activities. The city and school district already maintain a joint-use agreement for the park specifically concerning soccer field use and upkeep, as outlined in the Forster Ranch Specific Plan. Councilmember Mark Enemier highlighted the potential for multi-use by both the city and the school, suggesting activities like summer concerts, plays, and middle school productions and band concerts. Currently, the existing small stage at Forster Ranch is primarily utilized for citywide events, such as Movies in the Park, but community members have reported its consistent underutilization. During the August meeting, some city officials, including Mayor Rick Loeffler, expressed unawareness of the stage’s presence. Councilmember Steve Knoblock described the existing asset as "a real gem," noting he wasn’t aware of it.
The alternative location considered by city staff was Steed Park, situated on Avenida La Plata. This undeveloped site also piqued staff interest due to its natural slope and bowl shape, features that staff indicated could ease construction by eliminating the need for extensive reshaping. The primary development required at Steed Park would be the addition of outdoor seating. Its proximity to a parking lot across the proposed construction area was also noted as a potential storage space. However, based on staff support, the Forster Ranch site was ultimately favored due to its lower cost for updates and its recognition within the community.
The concept of a community amphitheater has been explored by the city for a few years, driven by community interest and the aim to promote San Clemente’s arts and culture scene. Following the August meeting, council members directed staff to conduct deeper research into each location, specifically reviewing necessary upgrades and their environmental and financial impacts before any final decisions are made. City Manager Andy Hall confirmed that while no final decisions have been reached, the city is continuing to explore the optimal uses for the existing amphitheater. Hall also noted that staff has engaged with neighbors to gather input and suggestions.
