Features
PAC Proposed To Replace Mizner Park
Mizner Park Amphitheater in Boca Raton, Fla., could face the wrecking ball under a plan by one of the state’s largest condo developers who wants to replace with 300 to 400 luxury units.
Mizner Park Amphitheater – Mizner Park Amphitheater
But the loss of the 4,200-capacity shed could be the city’s gain, as developer Related Group is offering to finance and build a performing arts center for more than 1,500 as well as a parking garage near City Hall, according to the Sun-Sentinel.
“I think that’s something that works to the benefit of everyone,” William Shewalter, Related’s VP of development, told the paper. “A nice performing arts center would be a positive for the community.”
The timing is right – the city is reportedly already considering building a new PAC as part of an upgrade of public facilities.
Mizner Park Amphitheater opened in 2002 and has hosted national touring acts such as John Mellencamp and Boy George. It also serves as a gathering place for charity events, movie nights and community concerts.
“Our community loves our amphitheater, and I wouldn’t give that up lightly,” Boca Raton Mayor Susan Haynie said, adding she can’t support a plan that eliminates the amphitheater for apartments.
Boca Raton’s city council, however, directed staff to look at Related Group’s offer.
The city took over Mizner Park in 2010 from the Schmidt Family Center for the Arts after a dispute between the group and then-booker Live Nation. The shed reportedly sat dark for months and fell into disrepair.
In recent years, it has hosted