PADUCAH — A construction crew has commenced the highly anticipated renovations on the main facade of the historic Columbia Theater, a beloved landmark located at 504 Broadway Street in downtown Paducah, marking a significant milestone in the preservation of this iconic building, as announced by the Columbia Art House board on Monday.
The initiation of facade restoration signifies the beginning of Phase 1 of the comprehensive renovation plan, which is expected to be completed by summer 2025, with crews already seen washing the facade on Monday, setting the stage for the meticulous restoration process.
According to the board, the scope of work will encompass a thorough cleaning and repair of the tile adorning the front of the theater, as well as repointing the joints between the sections to ensure the structural integrity of the building, with Schnell Contractors Inc. of Louisville, a trusted subcontractor of Ray Black and Son, spearheading the effort.
Board members expressed their enthusiasm and relief at the start of the project, with Jeff Canter, board member and head of the design and construction team, stating, “This is the first step of a multi-step exterior rehabilitation process for this magnificent structure, and we are eager to see it come to fruition.” Darlene Mazzone, chair of the Columbia Art House board, added, “We have worked tirelessly to reach this stage of the historic building’s future, and we are thrilled to finally get this essential work underway before the onset of the winter season.”
The board has successfully raised over $460,000 from private donors and organizations to fund the projects, in addition to securing a $314,000 Kentucky state tax credit and a $500,000 matching grant from the City of Paducah, bringing the total funding to date to over $1.2 million.
As noted by Mazzone, “The current estimate for this phase of the restoration and repair is around $1.5 million, and we are optimistic that we will be able to secure the remaining funds necessary to complete this initial phase of work, ensuring the structure’s integrity and restoring the facade to its former glory.”
Those interested in contributing to the project can make a donation online at columbiaarthouse.org.
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