The historic Capitol Theatre in Flint is one of six preservation projects that received the Governor’s Awards for Historic Preservation last week in Lansing.

“Historic structures and archaeological sites help to anchor our communities,” Governor Gretchen Whitmer said. “These projects contribute to our economy and strengthen the neighborhoods we call home. When we can educate people about our state’s unique past and inspire curiosity in new skills that could lead to job opportunities, we are helping to build a stronger Michigan.”

As MLive reports, the theatre, built in 1928, was closed for more than 20 years before reopening at the end of 2017.

The $32 million restoration project got underway following a two-phase feasibility study which examined the potential role the space could play in revitalizing Flint’s downtown.

The transformation of the theatre was funded in part by several CMF members.

The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation announced a $15 million grant in 2016 to help renovate the theatre, recognizing the important role the theatre could fill in the revitalization of Flint following the water crisis.

“In fact, the challenges presented by the crisis are exactly why projects like the Capitol Theatre are so important to Flint,” Ridgway White, president of the Mott Foundation said in a statement at the time. “We need to not only reboot but redouble the forward momentum that was underway before the water crisis struck. By multiplying the reasons for people to live in, work in and visit the city, we’ll give new spark to the positive energy that will help Flint recover and rise from the crisis.”

The Hagerman Foundation also supported the restoration.

“One of my many memories of being a kid was in 1965 when my entire family went to see The Sound of Music at the Capitol Theatre,” Phil Hagerman, president founder of the foundation said. “Besides bringing back memories for Flint residents it is also a major revitalization project for the city, that helps to rebuild its position as a destination. Bringing people and businesses into the city is key to the development of Flint.”

The Ruth Mott Foundation provided funding for façade improvements to repair marquees and brick work.

Consumers Energy Foundation provided funding to enhance the theatre’s orchestra pit equipment.

After an extensive renovation and support from Michigan philanthropy and other entities, the theatre now provides diverse arts and cultural programming and entertainment for the community.

“The collaboration between the nonprofit sector, Michigan Economic Development Corporation and private foundations underscores the hard work needed to bring a complex project such as the Capitol Theatre rehabilitation to fruition,” Brian Conway, state historic preservation officer said. “This project has brightened the community and the Flint area has a new destination for education and entertainment.”