Community Renewal Good Stories - New York City

Information by State  Print version

Bronx EZ Assists Performing Arts Theater in Heart of Cultural Corridor

New York, New York, EZ

In an effort to create new jobs, increase tourism, and enhance the community's cultural offerings, the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation (BOEDC) has provided a $500,000 loan to help expand the Pregones Touring Puerto Rican Theater. Under the terms of the agreement, the loan may be converted to a grant in 2018 if Pregones maintains its mission.

Located at 571 Walton Avenue near 149th Street, the 120-seat theater is expected to open in June 2005 and will be a welcome addition in a neighborhood widely recognized as a burgeoning cultural center. The loan from BOEDC, which administers the Bronx portion of the New York EZ, will go toward the purchase and renovation of an adjoining warehouse at 575 Walton Avenue. "We're excited about what this means for the overall Bronx economy," says Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion, Jr. "Not only will the new Pregones Theater put people to work, but also its location-situated just 5 minutes from Manhattan and a block from the NYC Transit System-guarantees that many visitors of all backgrounds will come to experience the rich culture and heritage of one of the city's largest ethnic groups."

Under the artistic and administrative direction of Rosalba Rolon, Alvan Colon Lespier, and Jorge Merced, Pregones Touring Puerto Rican Theater has distinguished itself as a specialist in the production of Hispanic plays and performances. "This funding marks a major milestone in our 15-year history of providing residents from across the city and tourists alike with an affordable way to access cultural, artistic, and educational events," says Rolon. "The $500,000 loan will allow us to expand on those offerings to ensure that Pregones continues on its path of providing first-rate performances for everyone to enjoy."

For additional information on the programs of the New York EZ in the Bronx, contact Steve Rodriguez at (718) 590-3549.