New Arts and Innovation Center Planned for State College

Community members will have the opportunity to shape the vision a new arts and innovation center coming to downtown State College, Centre Foundation announced on Friday.

The foundation is funding the center and working with local arts and community engagement organizations to develop the space at 137 E. Beaver Ave. The location was previously the longtime home of Gift Adventures and most recently was a leasing office for The Station student apartments.

‘The center, yet to be officially named, will be a vibrant downtown space that will host artistic and innovative experiences,’ a foundation news release said. ‘Community members will be able to watch performances, engage with a wide variety of art, and participate in innovative community activities.’

Two funds held by Centre Foundation — the Knight Foundation Fund and the Kalin Family Fund — will support the project.

For community members interested in offering their thoughts on what the new space should look like, design workshops will be held at various times next week at the Beaver Avenue location. Meetings will last approximately one hour and attendees are asked to arrive promptly. Go here to sign up for a time slot.