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Unlocking Long-Term Stability and Growth for the arts & Our Community
The Sherbino (Ridgway Chautauqua) and Weehawken Creative Arts are proud to launch the "Key to the Future" campaign, a 50/50 collaborative effort between RC/Sherbino and Weehawken Creative Arts to complete purchase of 145 N. Cora Street, Ridgway, CO. This strategic investment is essential for our long-term stability and program growth, ensuring that we can continue to serve as the cultural and artistic heart of downtown Ridgway.
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A Vision Rooted in Master Planning
In 2019, the Ridgway Chautauqua (RC) recognized the need for a comprehensive Master Facility Plan. Architects John Baskfield and Kit Meckel from Conterra Workshop were commissioned to create a plan that would seamlessly integrate our existing buildings—the Sherbino Theater at 604 Clinton and the 610 Arts Collective at 610 Clinton—while exploring opportunities for future expansion. Included in that vision, was potentially addressing a need for long-term secure classroom space for Weehawken Creative Arts, if possible.
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Early in 2020, the Master Plan identified 145 Cora Street as the optimal site for expansion due to its proximity to our existing buildings, excellent street frontage, and large lot size within the mostly built-out downtown core. As depicted in the Master Plan drawing, this location offers exceptional benefits that align with our long-term vision. ​​
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Bridging the Present and Future
In 2021, RCS and Weehawken Creative Arts (WCA) took a significant step by leasing 145 B Cora Street. This space has been invaluable for special event storage, classroom activities, and rehearsal space. By early 2022, the opportunity to purchase 145 Cora Street emerged, and we are proud to announce that RCS and WCA now jointly own this property.
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Though 145 Cora Street is an older building with deferred maintenance, its potential is immense. We are committed to utilizing this space effectively both now and in the future.
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A Phased Approach to Transformation
To realize our vision, we are initiating a long-term, phased capital campaign:
Phase I: Acquisition - COMPLETE
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Goal: Secure 145 Cora Street.
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Funds Needed: Minimum $200k at closing (split between RCS and WCA), with an overall goal of $300k.
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Status: Acquisition complete.
Phase II: Stabilization and Debt Retirement - WE ARE HERE
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Goal: Retire debt and address critical deferred maintenance.
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Funds Needed: $380-$480k for debt retirement and $50k for immediate maintenance.
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Additional Needs: $30k to purchase town parking spaces for future campus needs.
Phase III: Planning and Design
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Goal: Develop a comprehensive plan and design for the entire campus.
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Funds Needed: Estimated $100k.
Phase IV: Fundraising for Implementation & likely Phased Implementation
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Goal: Execute the campus plan, including phased demolition and construction, considering both Cora and Clinton properties.​​​
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The Opportunity at 145 N. Cora Street
As you can see in the diagram above, the 145 N. Cora property offers a tremendous amount of opportunity with regard to land alone. Both the 610 Arts and the Sherbino's combined footprint is smaller than what 145 N. Cora offers. The lot includes both sides of 145 N. Cora (the jewelry store as well as the "Annex" side). Additionally, 145 N. Cora extends from the sidewalk to the alley, offering twice the opportunity for development than is currently being utilized. This expansive space provides us with the unique advantage to significantly grow our programs and services.
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Join Us in Securing the Future
The Key to the Future campaign is more than just a capital campaign—it's an investment in the cultural vitality and sustainability of our community. Your support will enable us to create a thriving artistic hub that benefits everyone. Together, we can unlock the potential of 145 N. Cora Street and ensure a bright future for the Sherbino Theater, the 610 Arts Collective, and Weehawken Creative Arts.
