The Benton Harbor Downtown Development Authority is moving forward on the planning for the Benton Harbor State Theater Restoration Project!
Wightman Associates of Benton Township has begun work on a feasibility study considering different options for ways the building can be restored for use as a community cultural center.
DDA president Richard Hensel explained: “An advisory committee is coming together to explore options for live music, dance, drama, film, and festivals. We want to celebrate local talented performers, and producers’ efforts, by developing a space that can meet our creative community’s needs into the future.”
“The DDA Board believes this project will be a spark that can help power a new phase of Downtown Benton Harbor’s development as the place to experience our own unique mix of historic architecture, urban apartments, services, restaurants, galleries, and public art. The study should be complete before the fall, allowing us to move forward to engage our community in the exciting work to restore the building for us all to enjoy!”
The study is being funded by an anonymous donation for the theater’s restoration. In addition Representative Joey Andrews’ Office identified a source of infrastructure funds for the DDA to use for the Wightman study and pre-design work.
The DDA hopes all interested individuals will look for future updates, or contact the Benton Harbor DDA at <Bentonharbordda@gmail.com> .
Follow the “Friends of the Benton Harbor State Theater” on Facebook for more information, or to ask how you can support or be a part of the State Theater project.
