Two local not-for-profit groups partnered this Spring to bring Medford’s first-ever Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant to the historic Holly Theatre. The funding, in the amount of $200,000, supports crucial electrical upgrades and helps to bring the Holly restoration closer to completion.
Downtown Medford Association’s (DMA) mission is to economically revitalize Medford’s downtown core. Entertainment venues are crucial to a well-rounded healthy mix of businesses, amenities, and destinations downtown. DMA is an Affiliate of the Oregon Main Street program, formalizing that relationship in 2022, and becoming eligible for the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant.
The Oregon Main Street program is a statewide initiative designed to help revitalize downtown communities wherever they are in their process. The program provides funding and technical assistance to local communities, helping them to preserve historic buildings, promote economic development and create vibrant public spaces.
The grant is an important step forward in the ongoing efforts to revitalize the area and ensure that the Holly Theatre remains a treasured cultural asset for generations to come.
The historic Holly Theatre restoration project and the commitment of Jefferson Live! (JL!), the not-for-profit championing the project, has long inspired DMA members, partners, and Board members. When the grant opportunity became available, their respective teams worked closely on becoming application-ready.
“DMA is thrilled to have leveraged our Affiliate status within the first year of our Oregon Main Street formal standing to facilitate this grant opportunity to a beloved historic theater, bringing our resident and business community one step closer to seeing their first show at the Holly”, shared DMA board member Marta Tarantsey.
Shelley Austin, JL! Executive Director, states, “These grants and this kind of partnership between DMA and Jefferson Live! benefit not only the Holly Theatre but the entire community. When it’s finished, the Holly will be a cherished jewel in the crown of Medford, attracting tourist dollars and generating activity downtown. This grant enables us to upgrade electrical systems, allowing us to provide the best experience for our customers, and protecting our assets and careful historic restoration with reliable electrics.”
On June 3rd, the Holly will open its doors from 11 am to 1 pm for the public at the Open House, regularly scheduled each first Saturday of the month. Join them to tour the theater, learn a little history of the building, and hear what’s next in the construction plans. A DMA representative will be available to provide more insights into this exciting partnership and grant process. You can learn about the electric upgrades provided by the grant and ask all the questions you have.
Source: DMA / Holly Theater
