Associated Press Published

Public Hearing to Be Held on Robinson Grand Project

The Robinson Grand, or Rose Garden Theater in downtown Clarksburg.

A public hearing on the planned restoration of the Robinson Grand Theater is set in Clarksburg.

The Exponent Telegram reports Tuesday’s hearing will give citizens an opportunity to learn more about the city’s plans to put the downtown landmark back into use.

The hearing is part of the city’s loan-application process with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. City Manager Martin Howe says the Clarksburg Municipal Building Commission is looking at borrowing between $6 million and $7 million from the agency.

Restoring the architectural landmark as a regional cultural center is one of the city’s goals for reviving downtown.

James Swiger, president of WYK Associates, which is the architect on the project, has said that planned improvements include a basement for dressing rooms, a stage with an orchestra pit and handicapped-accessible restrooms.