Dubuque City Council approves $9.27M contract for Iowa Amphitheater on Schmidt Island

In a pivotal meeting on December 16, 2024, the Dubuque City Council gathered to discuss the highly anticipated Iowa Amphitheater project on Schmidt Island. As the council members settled into their seats, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement over plans that promise to transform the local cultural landscape.

The amphitheater is designed to be a versatile venue, capable of hosting a range of performances from local symphonies to national acts, with a capacity for up to 8,000 attendees. The structure will feature an artful stage canopy, enhancing acoustics and providing shelter for performers. City Engineer Gus Ahoyas detailed the project’s components, which include an open-air shelter, flexible space for local events, and ADA-compliant facilities.

The council reviewed two public improvement contracts for the project. The first, awarded in October, focused on demolition and site preparation, while the second bid, presented at this meeting, encompasses the construction of utilities, stage, and other essential amenities. Common Construction submitted the lowest bid of $8,169,000, which was 16% below the estimated cost. This bid also included several desired add-on features, such as parking enhancements and improved pathways.

Funding for the amphitheater totals approximately $15.75 million, sourced from a combination of state grants, TIF debt, and local contributions. Notably, the Dubuque Racing Association will provide a significant local match, which includes the deconstruction of existing structures to make way for the new venue.

During the discussion, council members expressed their appreciation for the detailed planning that has gone into the project. However, some concerns were raised regarding the high costs associated with stage rigging, which exceeded initial estimates. Alex Dixon, President and CEO of Q Casino Resort and DRA, acknowledged the unexpected expenses but emphasized the importance of prioritizing essential features over costly rigging at this stage.

Ultimately, the council unanimously approved the resolution to move forward with the project, marking a significant step toward enhancing Dubuque's cultural offerings. As the meeting concluded, the excitement was palpable, with members looking forward to the amphitheater becoming a vibrant hub for community events and performances in the near future.