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$1.2 million projected to fund 2nd phase of renovations at Urbana theatre

URBANA — GrandWorks Foundation, Inc. is seeking $1.2 million to fund the second phase of renovations at the Gloria Theatre in downtown Urbana.

The project was identified this week as a priority project to help the economy in the region by the Dayton Development Coalition.

The Gloria Theatre on South Main Street has more than 100 years of history and is the only movie theatre and performing arts center in Champaign County.

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The money would go toward roof, electrical, HVAC and stair work among other infrastructure repairs, according to an application for funding. It also would include a renovation of the front lobby and concession areas. New ADA compliant restrooms and a cafe lounge and kitchen also would be constructed.

“The mission of the GrandWorks Foundation is to Reach, Restore and Revive our community by redeveloping and transforming the Gloria Theatre into a platform for social, spiritual, cultural and economic growth for Champaign and the surrounding counties,” organizers said in their application to the coalition. “Renovations as well as new construction to expand the building, upgrade theatrical and live event capabilities, will bring exciting entertainment to the area and stir a reawakening of performing arts and tourism. To keep our youth in the area as they pursue their careers and raise families, we need modern facilities for business networking, idea generation and celebrations.”

GrandWorks Foundation has projected to spend $5 million dollars on the four stages it has planned to renovate the theatre.


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