The Hannibal Arts Council is embarking upon an exciting journey. This community project will lead us from our current facility at 1221 Market Street to the establishment of a new Center for the Arts in Downtown Hannibal. The Hannibal Arts Council has dreamed of making such a move for quite some time and the right opportunity has come along. After much healthy discussion, thoughtful consideration and overall consensus we took the first step and entered into a building contract on 105-107 South Main Street, the former Other Place Bar. We did our homework on fundraising and renovation needs and completed a Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) tax credit application. Thanks to the Missouri Department of Economic Development, the Hannibal Arts Council was awarded $87,500 in NAP tax credits (not a grant, but an opportunity for you to direct your tax dollars directly to HAC) to help us leverage $175,000 in fundraising dollars. After finalizing the building purchase and taking possession of the building we are now ready to take the next step.

Why a move? While the Hannibal Arts Council currently offers community arts programs and services at 1221 Market Street, and has since 1993, the new facility will enable us to serve our community in new and expanded ways. 105-107 South Main Street is handicap accessible and allows programs and services to be offered on one floor. It is also nearby to ample parking and will be another exciting development on South Main Street, joining other major projects like the Mark Twain Hotel, the new B&B Theatre's Main Street Cinema 8, Floodgate Gallery/Mark Twain Ice & Coal, and the Star Theatre. The overall general renovation plan includes changes to the 2600 sq. ft. first floor: the creation of reception, office, gallery and performance spaces in the former bar areas as well as workshop, meeting, kitchen and storage spaces in the former kitchen area. The second area targeted for renovation is the creation of additional office and storage spaces on the approximately 1800 sq. ft. unfinished second floor. The total project goal for building acquisition and renovation is $250,000.

Please join us on this endeavor. Come along for the ride and help us reach our destination! There are many ways in which you can help...financial donation, volunteer work days, fundraising, moral support, and encouragement.