NEGAUNEE, MI (AP)-- Negaunee’s city manager says his community wants to turn the historic Vista Theater into the "shiniest jewel in town."
Nate Heffron says the city and the Greater Ishpeming Negaunee Chamber of Commerce are contributing $10,000 to hire an expert who will come up with a business plan for the theater. Historic theater expert Thomas Gerdom will recommend how to improve the exterior and interior as well as how to pay for repairs and keep the theater viable.
The Vista opened in 1926 as a vaudeville and movie theater and is on the National Register of Historic Places. It's now operated by the Peninsula Arts Appreciation Council.
Negaunee Mayor Don Gladwell says the theater is an anchor that brings people downtown.
Gerdom’s report is expected to be completed in the next 12 weeks.
