Arts Council committed to downtown

Following its semi-annual general meeting last night, the Community Arts Council has re-committed to moving into the downtown. The Council’s dream is to build an arts-based community centre, also known as a “creative hub” at a downtown location. It is looking at the site where the Farmers’ Market is now located at 3rd and George Street.

“While the proposed new site is a substantial upgrade in terms of location, it falls far short of space and the building will require an extensive addition and renovation to suit the needs of the CAC and the community”, says Linda Rempel, CAC President. 

What the Arts Council would like the centre to include is a 250-seat multi-purpose performance space, classrooms, workshops and art-friendly spaces, gallery and exhibit opportunities, community events, short- and long-term rentals, a public marketplace, gift shop, social enterprise café and a ticket box office. But the estimated price tag is $11 million to $12 million, which is why the Council will be conducting a feasibility study of the site concept as proposed, as well as to evaluate the viability of financing and operation models. 

“Our goal is to move into the new facility in 2021 and operate this innovative new destination attraction, designed for 21st century creative and cultural activities and programming, all the while playing a significant role in downtown revitalization efforts.”