The City of Long Beach broke ground Wednesday on its temporary coastline outdoor amphitheater, a roughly $20 million project expected to open in June.
Councilmembers approved an additional $7.3 million towards the project at its Jan. 6 meeting, on top of the $15.5 million allocated in April 2025, bringing the total cost to $22.8 million. The amphitheater is expected to run for about 10 years.
The main reason for the ballooning budget is to purchase higher-end furniture, fixtures and equipment that the City says will make the venue more competitive and offer premium experiences. Other factors for the higher cost included rising material and labor costs driven by tariffs and “broader economic conditions.”
So far, $4 million has been used for emergency maintenance and safety improvements, which the City claims “were necessary regardless of the Amphitheater project to eliminate safety hazards and improve access” throughout the area.
Long Beach aims to open its outdoor amphitheater this year, Mayor Rex Richardson said at the 2025 State of the City. (Courtesy of the City of Long Beach)
The additional $7.3 million is being borrowed from the City’s Tidelands Fund, money used for projects on the city’s coast, and has a payback period of eight years. About $4.3 million is for the high-quality furniture and equipment enhancements, while only $2.2 million is for the higher construction costs and $414,000 is set aside for further unexpected costs.
Long Beach chose Legends Global (formerly known as ASM Global) to operate the theater for a five-year term, with a five-year renewal option. The same company runs the Long Beach Terrace Theater and Convention Center. Estimates by Legends Global predict the amphitheater will begin turning a profit by its fifth year of operation, with an estimated $28.7 million in revenue by its 10th year in operation. The City said they expect to make $11 million alone in naming rights and sponsorships for the theater.
The amphitheater was expected to open this spring, but is now anticipating a summer opening. Despite a shorter season, Legends Global claims the high-end enhancement like VIP seating and artist and promoter experiences will guarantee a higher revenue stream than initial estimates.
Work beginning this month includes site resurfacing and drainage, accessibility and pedestrian improvements and electrical infrastructure upgrades, followed by seating, stage and furniture and equipment installation.
