MALVERN, AR – Arkansas State University Three Rivers received a grant of $1.3M from the Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Council (ANCRC) at its meeting on Wednesday, May 22. The grant will be used to begin Phase V of the Historic Ritz Theatre Restoration and the addition of a Conference Center next door to the theater.
The council distributed $43.9 million to more than 40 projects that will restore and protect state-owned lands and property.
“We are extremely appreciative to ANCRC for their help through the first four Phases and with Phase V funding, we will be able to complete the restoration and open the theatre for business by 2025,” Chancellor Steve Rook stated.
In Phases III and IV, progress includes the lobby being torn out and completely restored, the restrooms revamped, and furniture, fixtures and interior finishes will be added during the summer. Additionally, Phase IV funded the purchase of the former TV repair shop next door as well as cleaning out the interior of the building.
Significant elements of Phase V include transitioning the TV repair shop into the Ritz Conference Center --additional lobby space and reception area, additional bathrooms for use by theater patrons, a multi-purpose green room that will double as a meeting and gathering space, and conference/meeting rooms. Entryways will be added to the front and rear the theater and the Conference Center.
In addition to completely revamping the TV repair shop during Phase V, the College also received funding to complete the Ritz Theatre AV and theater lighting as well as to purchase the building next door at 219 South Main Street.
ANCRC has funded the restoration and preservation of such iconic properties as the Arkansas State Capitol, Old Main on the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville campus, Lakeport Plantation in Chicot County and the Johnny Cash Home in Dyess.
The Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Council (ANCRC) was established by Arkansas Act 729 of 1987. Its grants and trust fund are managed for the acquisition, management and stewardship of state-owned lands, or the preservation of state-owned historic sites, buildings, structures or objects which the ANCRC determines to be of value for recreation or conservation purposes. The properties are to be used, preserved and conserved for the benefit of present and future generations.