Thornton Performing Arts Center
I. Project Description: Feasibility Study (2023)
The City of Thornton, Colorado seeks qualified firms to update existing feasibility studies completed in 2018 and 2019 that analyzed the Denver metropolitan market for a Thornton-based, multi-use arts, cultural and event center and potential locations with designs for the center.
Thornton desires to understand 1) if there are performing arts and cultural event needs not being met by current venues in the region; 2) if there is sufficient demand in the area to make it financially feasible for the city to operate such a venue and to identify those detailed costs; 3) what facility and site amenities are necessary to ensure this venue is financially successful; and 4) what locations in Thornton would support construction and operation of a new venue.
Thornton is willing to create a center in Thornton that can be enjoyed by a broad range of people in the local and regional community, providing it does not duplicate what is already available, ensures a positive, long-term impact on the local economy and is able to financially sustain itself with various funding streams.
Have questions about this study? Contact Theatre Projects by calling the hotline: 303-943-9048 or emailing Thornton23@theatreprojects.com.
Final Report presented at Council Planning Session, Tuesday, June 6, 2023. Link to entire report shared with City Council.
II. Project Description: Polling Study (2024)
Thornton is seeking a partner to analyze public opinion for a potential sales tax increase ballot issue on the 2023 City ballot. This ballot issue would ask voters whether they would support a tax increase to build and operate either a Performing Arts Center or support a larger Arts, Culture and Entertainment facilities initiative to benefit the quality of life in Thornton, Colorado.
The City is interested in pursuing a 20-year sales tax for:
Construction of a Performing Arts Center (size determined by Feasibility Consultant under contract with the city) - potential single ballot measure
Construction of an outdoor pavilion and festival grounds improvements
Renovation of Thornton's first fire station into a City/Fire/Police Museum
In addition to the above, Thornton is also interested in pursuing a second sales tax with no sunset to provide for the on-going capital repairs and estimated operating subsidies to support the above venues in perpetuity.
All information is subject to change.