McCracken Fiscal Court commits $500K to Columbia Theater project

The McCracken County Fiscal Court held a specially called meeting on Friday where they committed to provide $500,000 to the restoration of the Columbia Theater.

The City of Paducah had earlier committed to provide $500,000 for the project, contingent on Columbia Art House raising $1 million by June 30, 2026.  

At a February meeting, county leaders had noted that the theater project could mean less money available to renovate the Paducah-McCracken County Convention and Expo Center.

Since 2014 the Columbia Board of Directors with the help of volunteers have raised more than $450,000 through grants, private contributions, and fundraising events. The funds covered initial feasibility studies,  environmental assessments, asbestos abatement, and restoration of the original 1927 fire curtain.

The ultimate goal is to raise $1.5 million which is the estimated cost of stabilizing the building and restoring the façade.