The New JACC wasn’t on the ballots, but folks continue to open their wallets.
The proposed New Juneau Arts and Culture Center project just received its 100th major donation from Jeremy Bauer and Jason Clifton of Bauer/Clifton Interiors, and while a bond measure wasn’t put up for a vote in October, Juneau Arts & Humanities Council leaders expressed excitement the project continues to receive support from the community.
“We are just thrilled to have Bauer/Clifton Designs join us as Groundbreakers,” said New JACC Execuitve Director Katharine Heumann in an emailed statement. “The success of our capital campaign is built on the cornerstone of the many generous individuals and businesses making major donations. These show foundations and corporations how much the community supports and believes in the New JACC, which will lead to significant support from these potential partners in this important project.”
Benjamin Brown, marketing and development director for the JAHC, told the Capital City Weekly the project has secured just over $5 million in funding toward its goal of $26 million.
“It’s another strong sign that this thing is going forward,” Brown said. “That this building is going forward.”
Brown said significant support from donors helps signal the project’s viability to corporations that may eventually support the New JACC.
“When they see things like this, they smile and think, this is a real project,” Brown said.
Continuing conversations
There are multiple facets of the New JACC project that have yet to be determined.
One is whether a possible new building will be connected to Centennial Hall, which is managed by the JAHC.
“There’s a strong interest in having a connection to Centennial Hall,” Brown said.
While the possiblity has been publicly discussed, and there is an interest, Brown said it’s not a certainty
The change would have an impact on the cost of the project.
While public funding for the project was narrowly voted down by the Assembly, Brown said public funding for the New JACC remains a possibility.
He said talks are ongoing with the recently seated Assembly.
For more information, about the project visit www.newjacc.org and to donate visit https://www.newjacc.org/donate/ or call (907)586-2787.
• Contact arts and culture reporter Ben Hohenstatt at (907)523-2243 or bhohenstatt@juneauempire.com.
