July 2026 UPDATE
We’re making incredible progress on the new amphitheater and Lake Carola improvements, and things are really starting to shape up. Here’s a quick look at the current status of the project.
Lake Carola: All of the sheet piles are securely in place, and crews are currently working on the concrete capping and framing.
The Amphitheater: The main structure is officially fully erected! 🎭
Next-Level Sound: We are coordinating the main AV installation for the stage, while our Parks team is working hard behind the scenes to wire up incredible audio throughout the entire park. 🎶
Finishing Touches: Keep an eye out for the classic red brick borders being laid along the sidewalks this week to tie it all together.
Thank you for your patience as we build a beautiful new space for future concerts, community gatherings, and memories! ☀️🌳
The Ft. Mellon Amphitheater and Lake Carola project consists of several components combined into one coordinated effort. This was done to save cost between both projects and to reduce the time and any damage to the turf at Ft. Mellon Park. Funding is provided through a bond for the Lake Carola improvements and CRA funds for the Ft. Mellon Amphitheater.
Lake Carola Project
The Lake Carola portion is designed to reshape the lake’s edge to move the shoreline farther away from the back of the Museum and the sidewalk along Seminole Boulevard. This work is intended to reduce water infiltration into the Museum during periods of high water on Lake Monroe and Lake Carola.
Key elements include:
• Construction of a new seawall around the lake, raised higher than the Museum floor elevation, with a concrete cap.
• Installation of a weir structure to help regulate water levels.
• Beautification enhancements including a new sidewalk, upgraded lighting, and landscaping along the southeast side of the lake, connecting northwest toward East First Street.
Fort Mellon Amphitheater Project
The amphitheater has been a long-standing city goal, with more than 20 years of planning leading up to this design. CRA funding allowed the City to advance a modern, functional amphitheater that will include
:• A raised performance stage and amphitheater structure
• A video wall system
• Integrated sound system
• Updated landscaping and lighting
• Electrical upgrades and special-event power
• A continued sidewalk connection through Ft. Mellon Park to Lake Carola
