Chautauqua Institution Amp Comes Down In Controlled Collapse

CHAUTAUQUA, N.Y. (AP) — The Chautauqua Institution's 123-year-old amphitheater has been demolished to make way for a new venue that leaders say will have a similar feel but be safer and more accessible.

The roof of the structure came down in a controlled collapse Wednesday evening.

Crews are expected to have the site cleared by the end of next week.

Opponents have fought the project for two years, saying the structure is historic and should be preserved.

The new venue is scheduled to be completed in time for the 2017 summer season.

[STORY BY: THE ASSOCIATED PRESS]