The amphitheater in downtown Stockbridge is one step closer to becoming a reality.

  The Stockbridge City Council voted 5-0 at its Oct. 14 regular meeting to approve ranking of bidders and authorize negotiations of construction contracts for the amphitheater. The contract was awarded to H.J. Russell & Company.

  The facility is to be built northeast of City Hall at the intersection of North Henry Blvd. and East Atlanta Road and will be the first major amphitheater in Henry County. City officials expect it to seat more than 3,000 people.

  According to a statement released by the city the day after the vote, the construction project includes new parking spaces, an entry plaza, a pre-function plaza, VIP structured-covered viewing boxes, terraced lawn seating, a permanent covered sound booth, outdoor stadium seating, an elevated walkway, egress stairs and ramps and sidewalks.

  Five new buildings will be included in the new complex. A two-story, 4,685-square-foot stage pavilion will contain an enclosed green room, and a 1,923-square-foot single-story structure will serve as the will-call building. Three other one-story buildings about 1,900 square feet each will serve as the main restroom building and the two concession buildings.

  “This is a historic moment for the city of Stockbridge,” said Mayor Anthony Ford. “This state-of-the-art amphitheater will be a dynamic staple in the region creating memorable experiences. This is an exciting moment in history for the city. We can’t wait to show Stockbridge and the world what’s in store. We will announce the amphitheater’s groundbreaking very soon. See you in Stockbridge.”

  A groundbreaking for the amphitheater will be held Monday, October 28 at 11 a.m.