ArtsWestchesterhas received $5 million in state money as part of plans to modernize its White Plains headquarters, enhance programming and services, and improve its public accessibility.
It's the largest single state investment in the organization's history, a news release said.
"This $5 million investment is a defining moment for our organization and for every community we serve," Kathleen Reckling, ArtsWestchester chief executive officer said. "Our historic building has been a community anchor for nearly a hundred years, most recently serving as an incubator for creativity and a safe space for artistic expression."
How state funding will help ArtsWestchester
Projects in the capital plan that the money is for are:
- Electrical systems modernization, which is in progress and nearly finished
- Replacing building windows
- Facade repointing
- Elevator modernization
- An Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant entrance
- An expanded learning lab and artist co-working space
- New equipment systems and technology infrastructure for presenting visual and performing arts, such as new lighting and acoustic treatments.
ArtsWestchester, at 31 Mamaroneck Ave., currently has 4,800 square feet for
contemporary exhibitions and artist studio rentals, its website said.
Historic $5 million investment in ArtsWestchester
State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said she was committed to working with Gov. Kathy Hochul, the Assembly speaker and Cousins' Westchester colleagues "to secure this historic $5 million investment, because we know the arts are essential to creating vibrant, connected, and thriving communities.”
State Sen. Shelley Mayer said ArtsWestchester’s support for local artists and cultural organizations "spurs economic activity, enriches our communities, and makes the arts more accessible. The rich arts in our communities inspire young people and demonstrate the power of creativity."
State Assemblymember Matt Slater said the investment "will ensure ArtsWestchester can continue expanding its reach and welcoming even more residents through a renovated, accessible facility that reflects the vibrant arts community it serves."
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Here's how $5 million in state funding will help ArtsWestchester
