Duluth armory restoration group receives $1M donation
A project to restore Duluth's armory got half the private funding it needs in a single donation announced Friday.
Duluth's armory building was once the city's lead entertainment venue, hosting the original Duluth-Superior Symphony orchestra, and music acts from Johnny Cash to the Beach Boys and Buddy Holly. Plans to restore the old building just got a big boost with a $1 million anonymous donation.
Duluth Armory Arts and Music Center Board Vice President Mark Poirier said that single donation fills more than half the $1.9 million private fundraising goal.
"We're very confident now that it's going to be a reality," Poirier said. "Our group is just thrilled to hear about this donation. It's just fantastic. It's the kind of news that makes you feel like it's all worthwhile in that it's really going to happen."
The board plans to develop retail space, and bring in a music program for kids.
The project also has more than $6 million committed in state and federal historic tax credits that can be sold for cash and more than $600,000 in additional grant and foundation support.
Create a More Connected Minnesota
MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.