In the summer of 2021, Vancouver City Council approved the PNE's proposal of a completely covered 9,300-seat amphitheatre and in 2023, the project moves into phase two.
"We’re going through the design process now, and will likely have more info in the coming months," a spokesperson for the PNE tells V.I.A in an email.
Considered a vital "component of economic recovery for the PNE and the events industry," the project is estimated to cost $69.7M, according to the proposal document.
The existing amphitheatre is uncovered and largely resembles a parking lot with bleachers when not in use. It can accommodate 4,500 people on the benches and 2,500 standing. It has hosted the likes of Billie Eilish, Blue Rodeo, The Beach Boys, TLC, Shaggy, and the now-infamous Breakout Festival.
The goal of the new venue space is to increase annual events from five to 49, including 22 new community events. There will be improved amenities including accessibility, food and beverage, public washrooms, and flexible group spaces. The revamped amphitheatre will also extend the current season from five months to year-round and will have built-in sound-proofing measures to reduce noise pollution for the surrounding residents.
Construction is expected to begin in 2024 to be completed by 2026.
The amphitheatre is one of three projects the PNE is undertaking to renew the park. It is also working to create a festival plaza that would provide open space and amenities for year-round programming. Once the amphitheatre design is complete, the PNE plans to create an aquatic and terrestrial wetland with a strong focus on habitat, trails and boardwalks for the adjacent daylighted creek.
