Supervisors approve amphitheater grant proposal

PALMYRA — The Fluvanna Board of Supervisors approved submitting a proposal to Bama Works for construction of an amphitheater at Pleasant Grove 5-0.

The proposal cannot exceed $60,000.

Patricia Groot, grants administrator for the county, noted Bama Works typically does not grant more than $10,000 at a time but exceptions sometimes happen.

Groot also mentioned the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation administers Bama Works. Even if Bama Works only grants $10,000, another benefactor from CACF might contribute to the program.

“We’ve received Bama grants in the past that have been administered properly. [CACF] have been satisfied,” said Groot.

The amphitheatre would be constructed in two phases. The first phase would construct a stage about the same size as the Carysbrook Performing Arts Center. Phase one would also include enough bench seating for 140 people and additional grass seating.

The second phase would add a shelter area for possible changing rooms and storage, covering over the stage and additional 450 seats seats with less grass seating.

“I wouldn’t put it forward if I didn’t think we had a chance,” said Groot to the supervisors.

The first phase is expected to cost $59,925. The county has budgeted $5,000 with plans for the remaining funding from grants.

The deadline for the Bama Works grant is Feb. 1. The next Bama Works deadline is Aug. 1.