Amphitheater to be built on West Campus

Confusion and curiosity ensued when the college erected a chain-link fence on West Campus March 9.

The surprise fence's purpose is to contain the construction of a new amphitheater.

Despite the relative quickness in the fence's appearance, the $289,000 project has been in place since last May, when the facilities committee in the Board of Trustees approved the amphitheater and signed an architect.

The amphitheater is to commemorate sociology and anthropology professor Henry Bagish, who taught at City College for 52 years. Bagish died Oct. 12, 2004 of heart failure at the age of 78.

The plans did not go before the entire Board of Trustees because the Bagish family privately donated the money.

According to Alex Pittmon, director of campus development, the construction will not obstruct the view.

"As big as that view is, all you'll have to move is a few cypress trees," Pittmon said. "The college has pledged to not build buildings and to keep some green for the students to enjoy."

Before his death, Bagish chose to import the rocks and bowls for the structure from Bali. According to Pittmon, some of the stones are at least 3,000 years old. The plans also include a 4,000-year-old floral stone bowl that will be made into a fountain.

Other improvements involve transplanting cypress trees, a new concrete footpath with an American with Disabilities Act compliant ramp to the bowl fountain.

Bagish wanted to create a place before his death where students could sit and relax, Pittmon said. Bagish envisioned a place that resembled a location in Bali where monks gather and meditate.

The amphitheater is not intended to hold concerts, but is open to hold lectures. The public can also access it for free.

According to Pittmon, the amphitheater will be completed by this June depending on the weather.