
The Chautauqua Institution invited panelists to participate at the suggestion of the National Park Service and the panel spent four months meeting regularly to assess the amp’s most significant character defining features, review current and suggested project designs, and offer recommendations. Joining Jay DiLorenzo on the panel were Julian Adams and Kathleen LaFrank from the New York State Historic Preservation Office, Peter Flynn of Flynn/Battaglia Architects and Preservation Buffalo Niagara, Theodore Lownie with HHL Architects, and Caleb Pifer from The Historical Society of Erie County (PA).
Since 2011, the Preservation League has participated in discussions regarding Chautauqua Institution’s desire to renew the historic amphitheater, initially as part of the Amphitheater Study Group. Throughout that time, the League has advocated for a solution that respects the amp’s history, preserves its unique character, and celebrates its landmark status. We hope that Chautauqua Institution takes the opportunity with its board vote later this month to preserve the amp and follow the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.