The MACK Rehabilitation Project: 75% Complete

The MACK Rehabilitation Project is revitalizing the historic Hotel Keturah, built in 1910 and listed on the National Historic Register. This comprehensive renovation modernizes the building while preserving its historic charm, enhancing ADA accessibility, and creating versatile spaces for arts programming. The project meets the highest standards of historic preservation, as approved by federal and state authorities.

The MACK has been a cornerstone for arts programming for nearly four decades. Planning, engineering, and design began in 2016. The center served the community until March 2020, when pandemic restrictions required its closure. Construction began in May 2022, with an initial timeline of 18 months and additional needs to be addressed as funding permits. Thanks to the support of various sources, the original contract was extended to include vital upgrades to HVAC and sprinkler systems. 

To date, $1.8M has been invested, 75% of all currently contracted scope of work is now complete, including new plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and including the approved  fire protection systems. Future work will include installing a critical elevator, a four-story stairwell, and egress for full occupancy and expanded services, along with a commercial kitchen, a third-floor youth center, and a basement event space.

Additional fundraising is ongoing to complete five remaining additions. The most crucial of which is the four-story stair and elevator which will ensure accessibility and compliance for all floors. The additional items are standalone projects which can be completed in any order and around reopening goals. To date we have sought various federal, state, and local funding sources and received generous support from local donors and foundations. Although we experienced a nine-month delay due to state approvals and subcontractor remobilization, these challenges created new opportunities, including eligibility for historic tax credits, which are currently being pursued. The MACK Rehabilitation Project