Opera House renovation project lands key support
Subscriber Benefit
As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe Now
The Porter County Council has unanimously thrown its support behind a $6.5 million renovation of the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso. However, our partners at The Times of Northwest Indiana report the project could face a roadblock from the county’s Board of Commissioners.
The project involves work to restore the nearly 130-year-old opera house, as well as the sheriff’s residence next door, built in 1860. It includes the addition of a glass structure to connect the two buildings that would create an accessible entrance and improve interior circulation, according to the publication.
As part of the effort, offices would relocate to the sheriff’s residence in order to expand the upstairs lounge, the auditorium seats would be replaced, mechanical systems would be replaced, and masonry and window issues would be addressed as well.
The council voted unanimously to ask the board and others to consider financing for the project. However, Commissioner Jim Biggs wants to postpone the project, saying other pressing matter such as road maintenance should be prioritized first.
If the project does move forward, construction could begin next year.
You can read the full story from Doug Ross at The Times of Northwest Indiana by clicking here.