A big check is coming Cedartown’s way from the Appalachian Regional Commission to help cover renovations costs.

The city released the announcement this afternoon that the ARC is awarding a $1 million grant to help with the costs of renovations that are expected to start next year.

Per the release, the grant funding will be used to complete Phase I of a large-scale modernization and improvement effort to one of the City’s most recognizable facilities. Constructed in 1976, the Cedartown Performing Arts Center has played host to national and internationally known acts and artists, as well as community theater productions and local art galas.

There are several elements of the Phase I renovations, explained Oscar Guzman, Director of Economic Development and Tourism.

“Phase I includes modernization of the fire alarm system, code-compliant accessibility to the building, revitalization of the lobby’s finishes, interior improvements to the auditorium, replacement of existing auditorium seating, and installation of a new membrane roof.”

He said the plans are to remain true to the original design and construction from when it was built nearly five decades ago. Expect the facility to retain its architectural design elements and look to remain true to what the original architects intended for its use.

Replacing the roof will eliminate existing leaks and improve the energy efficiency of the facility. The roof must be replaced before any other renovations can proceed.

The highest priority in Phase I renovations is the modernization of the existing fire alarm and emergency lighting systems. The systems will be updated to comply with current fire code regulations, and aisle lighting will be installed in the auditorium to improve aisle visibility.

The existing ramp into the auditorium will be demolished and new ADA-compliant access constructed. Dedicated areas of accessible seating will be created in the facility, and improvements will be made to the entrances of the lobby restrooms to make them ADA-compliant.

In addition to functional improvements, the Cedartown Performing Arts Center will see aesthetic upgrades. This includes replacement of the existing auditorium seating (940 seats) and updates to interior finishes which include carpet, wall base, and paint.

Seating style is still to be determined, but based on what is available on the market currently, they’ll likely provide more room for patrons to enjoy the variety of entertainment presented at CPAC.

Interior finishes at the main entrances and the lobby will be updated, including new flooring, new wall base, paint, acoustical ceiling tiles, and lighting.

“Since its opening in the 70s, CPAC has played a significant role in tourism and community development through the promotion of arts and entertainment,” said Guzman. “CPAC hosts a variety of events, including theatrical performances, professional bands, comedic acts, as well as artist exhibits, community performances, and children’s summer camps.”

Currently, CPAC averages 45 programs annually. These events include concerts, dance recitals, school productions, national touring acts, local acts, national dance competitions, regional school competitions, regional seminars, and various community/government programs. In 2023, there were 17,800 visitors to the facility; and the most recent data show visitation over the last 12 months to be at 20,000.

Once construction begins, the theater will “go dark,” or a shut down for a temporary pause to shows in order to complete the much-needed renovation work.

“The benefits expected from this project will create a considerable increase in economic impact for downtown businesses, arts and education opportunities, and quality of life,” said Dale Tuck, Cedartown Downtown Development Authority chair. “The realization of this project will ensure that the Cedartown Performing Arts Center remains an attractive tourist destination for Cedartown. This facility underlies the importance and economic impact that the arts and entertainment industry has in Polk County.”

Construction is looking to begin on late 2025 or early to mid 2026 date, based on timelines determined by funding availability, shows coming to the CPAC and when contractors might be available to complete the work, Guzman noted.

The City of Cedartown would like to express appreciation to the Appalachian Regional Commission, Governor Kemp for the award, and to the Northwest Georgia Regional Commission for the assistance in attaining the grant.

Phase I is estimated to be complete in 2026. CEVIAN Design Lab was procured to complete the preliminary architectural report for the facility

This is the latest work set to be completed on the CPAC. In recent years, the city got help with grant funding to have the rigging system redone, and a new lighting system installed. Guzman said those elements will be preserved for continued use by the CPAC amid the renovation process.

The city hopes that with the improvements to the the CPAC, additional lifespan will be gained from these systems as they’ll be better protected from potential problems like roof leaks or invasive species.

Note: Some of the information in this item was originally posted in the announcement on the City of Cedartown’s Facebook page. – KtE