What's been done so far?
- Fundraising efforts in the early 2000s all went to predevelopment (Architect, engineer, commercial appraisal, hiring a construction manager, environmental reports, and remediation). Renovations started in 2013 for the Art and Education tower, planned for tenant space, and was 60% complete with drywall, floor leveling, select windows and doors, masonry to building , and replicating the historic terra cotta tiles. The Art and Entertainment tower is also home of the antenna for Uptown Radio WJYN 98.5 FM. Design and installation of the antenna and equipment for the radio station was complete in 2017.
- Between 2018 and present, stabilization repairs from structural damage due vandalism and the age of the 1929 building continued. This included hiring an architect, structural engineer, historic review, sealing openings, roof repair, security cameras, rewiring electrical lines, new doors, and continued clean-up and grafitti removal.
- As the roof was damaged from a 2012 storm and another storm in 2019, UEDC is preparing to replace part of the roof and complete the technology center (across from the theater) in the Fall of 2026.
Before
Several openings were scattered throughout this building causing vandalism and trespassing.
After
Nov 2025-Jan 2026 Several openings were sealed at the front, back, and side of the theater.
We have a Capital Campaign goal of $40 million dollars to reopen the theater.
Development plans include:
•A renovated theater and lobby
•UEDC offices & tenant commercial space
•Uptown Radio WJYN 98.5 studios
•Black History Rhythm & Blues Museum
•Artist lofts
•Dining (restaurant or café)
•Mixed-income apartment units
•Parking garage facility adjacent to the theater and adjacent residential units
•Technology/Media Center
•Reconnect theater to SEPTA subway station beneath theater
•Rooftop garden space
(Picture shown is a rendering and not final)
$1.75 Million in predevelopment and construction funds have been raised. In addition $2.25 Million in RACP funds have been earmarked, but not yet drawn down. To use these funds we need a match. We have an ambitious goal, and a long road ahead, but will succeed one phase at a time!
