Forest Theater project is moving forward

Nearly a year after Carmel’s Forest Theater was closed because of health and safety hazards, architects will meet this week to get the ball rolling on the project.

The first meeting Friday will include the Director of the Pacific Repertory Theater — the group that has held shows at the Forest Theater for 30 years.

Gates are locked with warning signs for people to stay out because of several different plumbing, electrical and structural hazards.

Pacific Repertory Theater says the meeting will discuss the phase one of the project — including basic repairs and the design concepts of the building.

Newschannel 5 was told phase one will cost more than $200,000.

Residents in the area are hopeful the theater will open soon.

Carmel resident Linda Calafiore said, “Well, i think it’s a real asset to our community. I was happy when I moved here and I knew that it was right around the corner. So sorry it’s been a little dead, no one’s parked in front of my house. Looking forward to a new season.”

Next week, the Carmel City Council will get to review the preliminary concepts of phase two.

The theater Director says if everything goes as planned, they want to open Forest Theater at teh end of July… and the first show is slated to be The Wizard of Oz in mid-August.