Architects from eos Studio Arc, LLC unveiled their detailed plans for the restoration of Oil City's historic Lyric Theater during a stakeholder meeting held at Frame Hall on the Oil Region Venango Campus. The presentation, led by architect Lisa Whitney and project manager Zach Clegg, marked a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to bring the Seneca Street theater back to life.
Lisa Whitney, who serves as both architect and managing partner at eos Studio Arc, LLC, explained that she is currently in the final stages of completing the floor plan and interior finishes for the theater restoration project. Once these elements are finalized, Whitney indicated that the next crucial step will involve preparing comprehensive construction drawings and putting the entire project out to bid for contractors.
The meeting drew a diverse group of stakeholders who are invested in the theater's future. Board members from the Colonel Drake Cultural Alliance attended alongside representatives from the Oil Region Alliance, as well as officials from both the city and county levels. This broad representation underscores the community-wide support and collaborative effort behind the restoration initiative.
Among the attendees were several notable figures, including former Oil City Mayor Bill Moon, who was photographed examining the architectural blueprints alongside Colonel Drake Cultural Alliance board members. Colonel Drake Cultural Alliance Vice President Gary Dittman was also present to review the architectural plans for the first time, demonstrating the organization's deep involvement in the project's development.
The presentation included detailed discussions about various aspects of the restoration, with board member Diane Bolland of Oil City engaging in conversations about the opportunities presented by the main theater space. The discussions also covered important financial considerations, including the costs associated with preserving existing brick walls in the final design plans. Her husband, Joe Bolland, who serves as President of the Colonel Drake Cultural Alliance, participated in these crucial planning discussions.
Project manager Zach Clegg took an active role in the meeting by distributing design plans and blueprints to all attendees, ensuring that everyone had access to the detailed architectural drawings. The comprehensive nature of these plans reflects the thorough approach being taken to restore this important cultural landmark while preserving its historical significance.
The Lyric Theater restoration represents more than just a construction project; it symbolizes the community's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and providing a venue for future artistic endeavors. The theater's Art Deco architecture and historical importance make it a significant landmark for Oil City and the surrounding Venango County area.
With the architectural planning phase nearing completion, the project is moving closer to the construction phase. The collaborative effort between eos Studio Arc, the Colonel Drake Cultural Alliance, and various community stakeholders demonstrates the strong local support for bringing this historic theater back to its former glory and ensuring it serves the community for generations to come.
