The historic Strand Theater, on South Church Ave., which has been a landmark for many decades, will see many exciting changes in the months to come. The vision for the theater is a municipal arts theater which will be a first-class venue for many types of events whether local or to promote tourism.
“It will be a big shot in the arm for downtown,” said Louisville Mayor Will Hill. He added that it will take time and require patience, but it will become a reality, noting that the Strand project is number 12 out of 12 being undertaken since the tornado of 2014.
Last year, the City of Louisville purchased the building; demolition was necessary due to termite damage, and the building has been stripped down to its bare bones.
Hill stated that conceptual drawings have been presented to the Mississippi Department of Archives and History and representatives have toured the site.
There are things that can and cannot be done to preserve the historic integrity of the building, which have required some modifications to the design. However, according to Hill, the modifications have improved the design. He said that the City is very close to receiving full consent to proceed with the project.
Once the City receives consent construction documents will be prepared for the bid process. Hill added that this project is a work in progress; it is not fully funded so the City hopes to utilize both public and private funds for the venture.
