Wichita city council members have approved some changes in an agreement for the restoration of an historic theater.
The agreement is with the Power Community Development Corporation for the renovation of the Dunbar Theater at 1007 North Cleveland. Power CDC has been working to raise funds for a three-phase project, but fundraising has been below expectations and the first phase of the project won’t be completed by January 1st. Phase One renovations had a budget of $5.2 million, with costs of $3.7 million for Phase Two and $4 million for Phase Three.
The city’s Housing and Community Services Director, Sally Stang, told the council that an option was developed to allow the project to move forward and comply with federal regulations for Community Development Block Grants. She said the building would be renovated and converted into community space that can function while fundraising efforts continue. The city would use over $581,000 in block grant funding for the rehabilitation of the building and operational costs for a period of five years.
State Senator Oletha Faust-Goudeau of Wichita spoke to the council about the Dunbar project, and she said it will serve as a hub for education, economic development and entertainment activities. She said it would be a place to keep young people in the city to showcase their talents. Former city council member Lavonta Williams, who has also been involved with the project, said young people need the Dunbar as a center for performing arts.
Council members gave unanimous approval to changes in the agreement to allow the project to continue.
[ photo: KWCH ]
