Crews have started work for the new Washington Area Performing Arts and Events Center Auditorium at the Washington High School this week. A formal ground breaking ceremony will be held later this summer. At the June Washington Community School Board meeting, bids for the project were approved unanimously, although there was a $400,00 budget gap. Then superintendent Dr. Mike Jorgensen explained $50,000 will be saved in change orders and $100,000 came from money saved during refinancing of loans in May. Also, $250,000 in gap financing came from West Chester Savings Bank, Washington State Bank and Hills Bank.

Jan Gallagher explained then they believe there are still donors in the community who have yet to make a pledge and others who may be able to extend their pledges to the project. Also, they have some naming rights they may be able to sell, such as sections of the theater or seats.

For more information about the project click here.