Campaign clears $2.1 million

Arts Place is another step closer.

The organization announced Thursday that it has surpassed the $2.1 million mark toward its Legacy Capital Campaign goal of $2.4 million.

The campaign has brought in about $400,000 in the last four months, thanks in large part to a $200,000 challenge grant from former Portland residents John and Gretchen Young. A $100,000 contribution came in last week to complete the effort to match the grant from the Youngs.

“The end of the Legacy Capital Campaign is now within sight thanks to the nearly 300 businesses, families, organizations, foundations, and the Jay County Commissioners who have already supported the Legacy Capital Campaign,” said Mindy Weaver, president of the Arts Place board of directors. “Pledges and gifts of any size are welcomed and will be very much appreciated.”

The fundraising effort that started in 2017 will go toward making upgrades to Arts Place’s facility in Portland, including fixing structural issues and adding studio, gallery and lobby space. About 2,700 square feet will be added, pushing the building to almost 23,400 square feet.

Other improvements will include new lighting and related equipment, sound boards, instruments and improved technology.

The project also includes an endowment to help maintain the additions to the northwest and southwest corners of the building that sits between Main and Walnut streets, west of Harrison Street. Arts Place is also seeking to retire its remaining mortgage.

The goal is to break ground on the project late this spring.

“While we hope to meet the campaign goal over the next few months, we can’t wait any longer to begin facility improvements and remediation,” said Arts Place executive director Eric Rogers.