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Cleveland Public Theater seeks county support as it advances $12 million renovation in Gordon Square
Summary
Cleveland Public Theater presented a $12 million renovation plan to make historic theater buildings accessible and expand education space; the committee moved a proposed county award forward for additional readings after presenters said they have raised more than $7 million and are pursuing New Markets Tax Credits and other support.
Cleveland Public Theater told the committee it will seek county support to complete a $12 million capital renovation to improve accessibility, add restrooms and expand classrooms and community programs in the Gordon Square Arts District.
Raymond Bobgan, executive artistic director, said the theater's mission is “to raise consciousness and to nurture compassion” and described plans to consolidate and renovate adjacent historic buildings, add 10 restrooms (including four gender‑neutral facilities), and make the site fully accessible for audiences and participants. Melissa Waddell, director of development, said the project will expand education and year‑round programming, increasing the theater’s direct annual reach from about 21,000 people to an estimated 29,000.
Presenters said the total project is $12,000,000, with more than $7,000,000 raised and expectations of additional private support and New Markets Tax Credit financing; they listed potential schedule phases with a planned church break‑ground in December and a target completion tied to the theater’s Pandemonium event in September 2026. The committee recommended three readings and forwarded Resolution 20250175 to full council for further consideration.
What happens next: The council will review Resolution 20250175 in subsequent readings; project timelines and final funding will be confirmed during the appropriation process.
