Federal funding for district includes $2 million for downtown Fitchburg theater renovations
FITCHBURG - The ongoing renovation of the dilapidated downtown theater purchased by Fitchburg State University in 2016 will get an infusion of $2 million in federal funds this coming year.
The funding, secured by U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan, D-Westford, has been earmarked for the construction of a black box theater, a smaller performance venue.
The new space will be constructed alongside the existing theater, affording the university more versatility in the number and nature of future productions. The restoration of the historic (old) theater is scheduled for some time in the future.
The theater, which opened in 1929 for vaudeville acts, closed as a three-screen movie complex in 1988.
University officials thank the federal congressional delegation for securing the funds
“We are extraordinarily grateful for the support of Congresswoman Trahan in securing funds for this transformational project and recognizing the importance that the performing arts center will have on our students and the cultural enrichment and economic development for the city and region,” said Fitchburg State President Richard S. Lapidus.
The complex, at 717 Main St., has already seen major changes. The university has already built a game studio where Fitchburg State students in the school’s game design program complete their capstone semesters.
The complex is also home to the interdisciplinary ideaLab, used for small business training and other functions.
The university purchased the theater block, vacant for nearly 30 years, for $350,000; in part to expand the school's footprint in the downtown area. The goal was also to create opportunities for collaborative and interdisciplinary learning and studies in business and entrepreneurship.
University officials expect vibrant, innovative complex
The complex sits amid other storefronts that are also being renovated to accommodate commercial space, art galleries and even shops and restaurants with funds from municipal, state and federal allocations.
Already accomplished was the renovation of 7,000 square feet on the second floor that now houses a computer lab, co-working space for the game design program and the ideaLab. There is also event and meeting space.
Some 6,000 square feet on the first floor have been designated to house retail, development of student-led businesses and restaurant and other retail ventures. Last on the list of projects is the restoration of the 25,000 square feet of theater space; a 1,600-seat venue that will host shows and be open for use by community organizations.
This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Fitchburg State University gets $2 million for theater project
