I read with interest the April 15 editorial, “Upping city’s funk factor.” It was interesting to note that it referred to a Columbian series written back in 2004. I am aware that for several years there has been a quiet group looking at ways to construct or come up with some way to bring a performing arts center to Vancouver. In fact, at one point, there was mention of a downtown development that would house this on the ground floor. Another suggested location was the former state police office near Officers Row. Yet another was up at WSU Vancouver. And another was a possible location on the campus of Clark College.
The idea of a city arts district is a good one and has shown in many cities how it can revive the “funk factor” of a city.
The one factor that has been lacking in this area is a major philanthropist who is willing to come up with the first portion of the funding ($1 million to $3 million) for this kind of venue, as was done in other similar cities such as Longview, Tacoma and Spokane. This can then be leveraged with other funding sources to create a synergy. It’s time for our community to find that person or persons.
Greg Flakus
Vancouver
