The Garrett County Arts Council (GCAC) has been awarded a $200,000 grant from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) Strategic Demolition Fund to assist with their acquisition of the 108 S. Second Street property including The Gallery Shop, Front Page Stage and adjacent parking lots in the Oakland Arts & Entertainment District.
The funding will support GCAC's efforts to acquire and activate a new community arts space that will serve as a hub for arts programming, cultural events, exhibitions, workshops, performances, and creative entrepreneurship. The project is designed to strengthen economic growth within Oakland's Arts & Entertainment District while increasing opportunities for residents and visitors to engage with the arts.
"This investment from the State of Maryland will help the arts council continue to build a welcoming destination where creativity, culture, and community can thrive," said Kathy Beachler, Executive Director of the Garrett County Arts Council. “We are working with our partners and community members to expand access to arts experiences, support local artists and their businesses, and contribute to the continued revitalization of downtown Oakland."
The project aligns with state and local economic development goals by leveraging the arts as a catalyst for community engagement, tourism, and business growth.
“We are pleased the state of Maryland recognizes the Arts Mean Business,” Beachler said.
The Second Street property already hosts a variety of year-round arts and cultural activities that celebrate the region's rich heritage and creative talent.
The Garrett County Arts Council extends its gratitude to the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development for its support and commitment to strengthening Maryland's communities through strategic investment in the arts. Additionally, GCAC would like to thank the Garrett County Community Action Committee’s Community & Economic Development Department’s role in assisting the organization with the grant application process.
For more information about the project and upcoming programming opportunities, visit the Garrett County Arts Council or contact GCAC at 301-334-6580 or online at www.garrettarts.org.
Article courtesy of The Garrett County Republican. Photo courtesy of the Garrett County Arts Council.
