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Cathedral City Celebrates Two New Developments in Progress

Cathedral City will celebrate two new developments at different stages of construction Thursday, with a morning ribbon-cutting ceremony for a future retail and hotel space north of Interstate 10 and a groundbreaking event for the city’s new downtown amphitheater park, envisioned as a hub for concerts and other cultural events.

At 10 a.m., the city will celebrate the completion of a new Starbucks, the first retail store at The Crossings at Bob Hope, located at the corner of Varner Road and Bob Hope Drive. Other businesses still undergoing construction at the Crossings include a Best Western Plus hotel, an ARCO gas station with an AM/PM convenience store and several restaurants including McDonald’s and Taco Bell.

Officials say they expect additional future expansion of this “freeway-oriented business development,” offering residents and travelers dining and lodging options just off Interstate 10.

At 3 p.m., city officials will break ground on its new downtown amphitheater park, set for construction at Avenida Lalo Guerrero and Cathedral Canyon Drive, near City Hall. The 2.5-acre part will include a permanent outdoor amphitheater stage, restrooms, a concession stand, children’s play area, and walking trails.

Officials envision the site as a venue for a wide variety of arts and cultural events, with construction expected to be completed in the fall of 2019.

Following the city’s receipt last year of a $1.4 million grant to build the park, Mayor Stan Henry said it would “serve as an important anchor to creating an entertainment district in our downtown. Having an outdoor amphitheater will allow the city to attract additional festivals, offer greater amenities for our three signature events, and provide a venue for smaller theatrical events like `Shakespeare in the Park’ by our local high school students.”

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