New construction on Selma’s riverfront amphitheater may only be a month away, but its final completion date may be later than expected.

Problems, including bidding errors, contract disagreements and long periods without construction, have plagued the amphitheater since its groundbreaking in August 2012.

By June 2013, the building had a new roof and redesigned front. Construction ground to a halt shortly after.

The Selma City Council in March switched architecture firms — from Davis Architects in Birmingham to Harris and Smith in Atlanta. Selma Mayor George Evans cited an expedited process in Harris and Smith’s proposal at the time of the switch that guaranteed a completion date of Dec. 15, 2014.

The expedited process included two phases running concurrently, according to the city’s contract.

During Thursday’s council work sessions, Evans cited a later completion date — February. Following the meeting, he said the completion date will “hopefully be December,” but in time for the 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday.

“There are a whole lot of factors to consider,” Evans said. “Final completion will be in time for the 50th anniversary. If it is not ready, it does not stop anything; programs will go on.”

In an email, Selma Planning and Development director James Benderson said he expects to present a qualified bidder for the city council’s approval at an August city council meeting. An approved bidder would mean construction starting in mid or late August, Benderson said.

“It’s about [an] 180 day construction project with no major weather delays, since there is an optimal concrete pouring temperature.” Benderson said in an email.

If construction begins on Sept. 1 and runs on schedule, an 180-day construction project, including weekends and holidays, would wrap up on Feb. 27.

Harris and Smith’s contract with the City of Selma states a final completion date of Feb. 16 without the expidited process.

The amphitheater’s final stage of construction includes selective demolition, masonry construction, plumbing, acoustical ceiling panels and other items, according to the project’s legal advertisement.

Evans said the project, if completed before the 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, would provide an opportunity for expanded events during the Bridge Crossing Jubilee.

Selma City Council President Corey Bowie talked about the amphitheater’s potential when paired with the entertainment district on Water Avenue. The entertainment district was officially approved in June, but Bowie and business owners on Water Avenue are still sorting through logistical issues.

“It’s going to be the bookend of the entertainment district not only with events, but also with booking shows for the amphitheater,” he said. “It would also be a much-needed asset for the city as a whole.”