So far, work on the planned Riverwalk Amphitheater project at the old train depot has stalled, as city officials decide on what direction to take next.

The original project, which called for the stage to be a part of the building, was submitted as a low-bid at $597,000 from construction company Frasier and Ousley, for phase I.

Planning and Development director Charlotte Griffeth said her office and the Selma City Council are still looking at options to “help preserve the historical integrity” of the building.

“We have not made any definite changes,” Griffeth said. “Everything has been approved by the state historic commission. We had acquired all the necessary approvals from various state and local agencies.”

Griffeth said the intention is to keep the historical building intact.

“We’re looking at moving the actual stage outside of the building,” Griffeth said. “The initial plan was to put the stage inside the building. The architect, Mr. (Richard ‘Dick’) Hudgens, said work was about to begin, and he brought what he saw in the architectural structure; he asked the city to consider option two — to leave (the) arches and everything intact. Phase I would’ve taken out three of the arches on the building.”

Griffeth said she plans to take the current suggestions before the city council Tuesday. Griffeth was also due to meet with some of the council members Friday.

“They (the council) will determine if we should move forward with what we have, or go with option No. 2. The weather is causing the building to deteriorate more rapidly. If the council decides to go with (the) initial plan, option 1, then we can go ahead with construction right away. If not, the contract would need to be amended with the engineers.”

Griffeth wants to make sure that everything is in place before moving forward.

“We’re looking at funding as another project, once we change the scope of the project,” Griffeth said. “We’ll need to consult with funding agencies to ensure funds would transfer to the new scope of work. If not, we’d have to reapply.”