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PORT PERRY "WEEKEND STAR" FRIDAY, APRIL 28, 2000 - § Board unveils plan for Town Hall 1873 Expansion, improvements to accessibility among the highlights of ambitious renovation scheme By Chris Hall Port Perry Star Town Hall 1873 board members have drafted ambitious plans for one of Port Perry's oldest landmarks, and are hoping to begin the work later this year. Renovation and expansion plans for the historical building have been put together over the past two years, and, "now, it is time to get to started, says board member Mike Wilson. "We've already put a lot of time into planning the renovations, and we're ready to go," said Mr. Wilson. "It's a great building, with lots of his- tory, and we want to make some changes so that it can be enjoyed by the people of this community and others for another hundred years." Plans include expanding the south end of the hall to accommodate a larger stage area and workshop on the main - floor, as well as an extra change room, washrooms, and a patron's lounge in the basement. As a result of the expansion, which also calls for the installation of an eleva- tor and more wheelchair accessibility, the stage floor will be sloped to provide better viewing for audiences. Seating capacity will be increased to 237, up from 190. Perhaps just as important, there will square-foot expansion and other renova- tions is nearly $1.3 million. Grants from the federal and provincial governments are being sought, as well as community support. . "We are looking at hopefully getting some grants, as well as some help from local businesses in the area. We think that the Town Hall contributes to the quality of life here in the community, and that it's not just for those who enjoy the performing arts," said Mr. Wilson. "Port Perry has now become a desti- nation spot; people come here to enjoy our excellent restaurants, shops, lake... the Town Hall just helps to attract them here." A time frame of between five and 10 years has been set for the renovations, with elevators and accessibility for seniors and those in wheelchairs taking top priority, said Mr. Wilson. He said the renovations will help to breathe new life into a building that's been in use for generations. "Over the years this building has been used by the Port Perry High School, as a municipal office, jail, concert hall, fire hall, roller-skating rink... I don't think there is anybody in this communi- ty who wouldn't help out in a little way to keep this building around for another [I EA be no changes to the exterior look of the hundred years," said Mr. Wilson. ~ Mike Wilson examines drawings of plans for renovations to Port Perry's building. Anyone interested in supporting the Town Hall 1873. It's the centre for performing arts in the community, and The projected cost of .the 1,600 effort can contact Mr. Wilson at 985-7407. one of the town's landmark buildings. " --_----_ " a PR SN SRN 30 3 Bs = / / 5 HIGH SPEED INTERNET ON CABLE CLASSIC ALUMINUM 985-0075 Port Ferny www.powergate.ca Brought to you by: Compton Communications 985-8171