Times Theater wins $500,000 more for renovation thanks to Stadelman

The historic Times Theater in downtown Rockford will receive another $500,000 to help bring the long-vacant venue back to life. State Senator Steve Stadelman secured the additional funding in the state's fiscal 2024 budget, which takes effect July 1.

A subsidiary of Joseph James Partners is planning a $14 million renation of the Times, built in 1938, as a mid-sized performance space with 650 to 900 seats.

"We are grateful for Senator Stadelman's support of this project that will not only aid in the further revitalization of Rockford's urban core but also have a positive impact on our region," Joseph James President and CEO Peter Provenzano said. "The Times Theater is like many historic preservation projects across the country, where private and public funding is needed."

Stadelman's latest contribution to the project cmes after he helped deliver a $3 million Rebuilding Downtowns and Main Streets grant and $500,000 in Tourism Attractions and Festivals money. He called the Times project a "strategic piece of the Main Street entertainment corridor" that includes the BMO Center, landmark Coronado Performing Arts Center and the Rockford Public Library Nordlof Center "as well as the overall transformation of downtown."