New community hub reopens 1886 storefront as Improv Central after facade grant

Claire Slatterie reopened a renovated 1886 storefront at 500 Central Avenue as Improv Central, presenting the project to the Alameda Historical Advisory Board as an example of adaptive reuse and neighborhood activation.

Slatterie described the building’s history — moved across the bay and installed in the Fifth Street station area in the 1880s — and said she applied for and received a 50–50 city façade grant to fund exterior signage, metalwork, lighting and painting. She described interior improvements (new lighting, resilient flooring, built-in benches and electrical upgrades) and said the space hosts classes, community workshops and events and has welcomed more than 400 unique visitors in its first five months.

The presentation emphasized small-business and neighborhood benefits: reinvigorating a long-vacant storefront, using local artisans for signage and murals, and creating low-cost pay-what-you-can classes for community members. Board members and other speakers praised the project for reactivating an historic building and creating a visible beacon of activity on Fifth Street.

Claire Slatterie said the grant-funded improvements covered custom backlit signage, metalwork, exterior painting and new goose-neck lighting. She described the project as a partnership with neighbors: “The after image really shows how you brought the building to life,” a staff member later noted.

The board noted adaptive reuse keeps historic buildings occupied and that community-focused uses increase the chance of long-term preservation. The presentation was received positively and no formal action was required.