Overview

The ongoing project includes the renovation of 141 East 3rd Street in Marion, IN. The building has been purchased, and the first-floor storefront will serve as a community art gallery, and office space for local arts organizations and entrepreneurs. When complete, the building and its spaces will serve as that open space to celebrate the arts for everyone. Marion Design Co. will serve as the building manager since they initially are the primary tenant on a daily basis. They would partner with others on initiatives of education and celebration, bringing community members together who might not have previously considered themselves creative. The first phase of the project, the first floor, is nearly complete. The second phase, will begin in June 2023 and be complete by June 2024. READI funds ($100,000) will be used to pay for renovations to the basement so that the Center can expand its services and operations. Specific renovations include a chair lift, and bathroom renovations to provide an accessible set of facilities. Funds will also support the development of a workshop to support programming. This work will be procured through a public bid process in accordance with local, state, and federal guidelines. The intended outcome of the project includes increased accessibility, building code updates, and interior improvements to advance arts programming and collaborative partnerships. All matching funds will be provided by the Kennedy Arts Center.