Norwalk Theatre gets $4M in tax credits

NORWALK — The renovation of the Norwalk Theatre took a huge step forward Wednesday. Those overseeing an overhaul of the historic structure announced that the project was awarded $2 million in state tax credits, with an additional $2 million in federal tax credits expected to follow. The Norwalk Arts Center, the nonprofit entity taking on the project, hosted a small gathering at the theater to make the announcement. The announcement of the grant procurement was made jointly by Ohio Department of Development director Lydia Mihalik and Norwalk Arts Center executive director Dina Lukasko. The awards are a part of the Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program, which encourages private investment in the rehabilitation of historic structures by providing financial incentives for their redevelopment. "As Ohio's cities and neighborhoods continue to grow and modernize, it's essential that we honor and preserve the legacy that already exists," Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said. "These buildings are more than brick and mortar — they reflect the history of our communities and the generations of the past. Thanks to these tax credits, these buildings will contribute to Ohio's future as well." In total, 39 projects will be awarded a little over $66 million in tax credits to preserve 47 buildings across the state. The projects are expected to leverage approximately $518 million in private investments. With the announcement of the arts center's award, the room broke into applause. The total project cost for the Norwalk Theater is just over $10.5 million. Raising the curtain Designed in 1940, the Norwalk Theatre stands as an important landmark for downtown Norwalk and a notable example of modern style architecture, featuring a prominent marquee with subtle nautical influence. Vacant for over a decade, the historic theater will be rehabilitated and reopened as a 600-seat performance venue. Planned work will preserve and replicate original architectural details where needed, ensuring that the building remains a cultural anchor for downtown Norwalk and a hub for community arts and entertainment, according to a news release from the arts center. The project is expected to bring visitors to the downtown area with both movies and live performances. "It's amazing they have taken on this project and it's going to be huge for not only the arts in Norwalk but for the economic development," said Norwalk Mayor Dave Light. "This place is going to bring in some top notch performances and bring more life into the downtown area." Added Mihalik: "I really look forward to coming back opening night." Huron County commissioner Brad Mesenburg recalled the last movie he saw here was "Titanic." Mesenburg commended the Norwalk Arts Commission for taking on the project. "They have done such a great job and we look forward to bringing it home," he said. Huron County commissioner Tom Dunlap's last appearance at the theater goes back a bit farther than Mesenburg with the last film he saw at the theater being the Beatles' "A Hard Day's Night." "I am very excited for this project, it's going to be great when they get it open," he said. It's not known when work could start or when the theater could reopen.