PITTSBURGH \u2014 Local and state leaders gathered today to mark the start of Phase Two for the New Granada revitalization project in Pittsburgh\u2019s Hill District.<\/p>\n
The project aims to restore the cultural center, originally built nearly 100 years ago by Black Masons.<\/p>\n
The multi-phase revitalization efforts are transforming the historic New Granada building, with its colorful exterior completed in Phase One.<\/p>\n
The initiative seeks to re-establish the venue as a cultural anchor for Pittsburgh, anticipating significant economic impact within the community.<\/p>\n
Marimba Milliones, representing the Hill Community Development Corporation, detailed a key partnership for the project.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are partnered with Live Nation to do a multi-purpose event space that can hold up to 900 people. And so that\u2019s going to be a critical partnership,\u201d Milliones said. She further emphasized the economic opportunities, stating, \u201cWhat happens before they go into that building? What happens when they come out of that building? And who are the vendors associated with actually producing those shows? So the economic impact is tremendous.\u201d<\/p>\n
The multi-purpose event space with a capacity of 900 people will be located on the second floor of the New Granada.<\/p>\n
The building\u2019s first floor will feature a cafe, a lounge and a commercial kitchen. The third floor will house the University of Pittsburgh\u2019s Community Engagement Center.<\/p>\n
The project has received a $1 million investment from the state. <\/p>\n
Lt. Gov. Austin Davis spoke about the project\u2019s broader significance, saying, \u201cBringing back the theater is about more than just restoring a historic building. It\u2019s about restoring a cultural anchor that shaped Pittsburgh and ensuring its legacy continues for generations to come.\u201d<\/p>\n
Project leaders indicated that the timeline for completing Phase Two of the revitalization project is dependent on securing additional funding.<\/p>\n
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