As Pittsburgh’s arts venues emerge from pandemic restrictions they are getting a $3 million financial boost from The Heinz Endowments.
It is part of a $30 million package of grants approved by the foundation board with almost $10 million going toward community development initiatives, including more than $1.75 million to upgrade the historic New Granada Theater in the Hill District, another $1.7 million for the Hazelwood Green development and $750,000 to Bike Share Pittsburgh to assist with its transition to electric bicycles.
The Hill Community Development Corporation owns the New Granada Theater located on Centre Avenue. The revitalization project encompasses the surrounding block and features plans for housing along with cultural, retail and commercial development.
“Strengthening community development is core to building healthy neighborhoods and improving quality of life for all, now and for future generations,” said Heinz Endowments President Grant Oliphant in a statement. “This is a pivotal time that has further exposed areas of need and inequities in our communities that must be addressed if we are to move forward together in sharing in our region’s economic, social and cultural wellbeing.”
The Endowments’ $3 million reopening fund would be available to nonprofit organizations that own their own venues or have long-term leases for specific spaces. Money from the fund can be used for reopening expenses that include capital improvements and marketing and promotions. The grants process is currently being finalized and “may involve making funding available as an invitation-only program.”
Grants also are going to the Northside Industrial Development Company, Circles Greater Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation, City of Bridges, Wilkinsburg Community Development Corporation, Hosanna House, University of Pittsburgh, Gateway Medical Society, United Somali Bantu of Greater Pittsburgh, Community Justice Project, Salvation Army and Union Project.
More details can be found on The Heinz Endowments website.